Mexico plans to extend it litchi season by planting the late maturing Salathiel cultivar in the northeast Huasteca region, the National Institute for Forestry, Agriculture and Livestock (INIFAP) has announced.

The variety grows in clusters of eight to 10 fruit with an average weight of 14.5 grams and 70% of flesh with small seeds and thick shell.

Researchers have recommended it should be planted in rainy regions, preferably with good irrigation to gain the best results.

Salathiel starts bearing fruit three to five years after plantation and can normally yield 4.5 metric tons (MT) per hectare.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development and Fishing (SAGARPA) hopes the Salathiel cultivar will offer greater diversification in Huasteca as well as extending the harvest time and offer more job opportunities.

Researchers have recommended Salathiel be planted in the rainy season at a density of 204 trees per hectare in seven by seven meter squares.

According to official data in 2010, there were 579.24 hectares of litchi in 10 of Huasteca's municipalities.

Photo: SAGARPA

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