The use of plastic mulch in durian cultivation has become an effective solution that helps farmers improve yield, reduce risks, and increase the economic value of their crops—especially in the Southeast and Central Highlands regions. This method not only controls rainwater around the root zone and reduces fruit cracking but also enhances fruit setting and ensures better durian fruit quality.
In this article, BMFE provides a detailed guide on how to properly use plastic mulch for durian trees, helping farmers apply the technique correctly and achieve the best results.
Why Use Plastic Mulch for Durian Trees?
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Reduce excess rainwater infiltration at the root zone: In regions like the Southeast and Central Highlands, heavy rains often cause waterlogging at the base of the tree, affecting respiration and nutrient absorption.
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Control water uptake into the fruit: Excessive water can cause fruits to grow too quickly and unevenly, leading to cracked skins and lower visual quality.
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Improve fruit setting: This method helps maintain stable moisture levels, promoting better pollination and fruit retention, thus reducing fruit drop.
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Minimize disease risk: Mulching helps control soil moisture at the base, reducing the occurrence of diseases caused by fungi or bacteria.
How to Properly Apply Plastic Mulch
1. Prepare Materials
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Specialized plastic sheets: Choose sheets with appropriate size, typically about 6x7 meters per tree base.
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Cutting tools: Use scissors or sharp knives to cut the sheets to the desired size.
2. Timing for Mulching
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Begin applying mulch 30 days after flowering (post-anthesis) and continue throughout the fruit development stage.
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This timing helps regulate rainwater and allows the tree to focus nutrients on fruit growth.
3. Mulching Technique
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Distance from tree base: Leave a 20–30 cm gap between the mulch and the trunk to allow ground moisture to evaporate naturally and avoid fungal issues at the base.
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Placement: Spread the mulch in a circular shape under the canopy so rainwater will run off and not flow directly to the root zone.
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Securing the mulch: Use rocks or heavy objects to hold down the edges and prevent wind from displacing the sheets.
4. Investment Cost
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On average, each sheet costs around 70,000 VND (excluding transport). One sheet is needed per tree to ensure optimal results.
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Effectiveness Comparison: With and Without Mulching
With Mulch:
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Fruits develop evenly with no cracks or deformities.
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Higher fruit-setting rate, reduced early fruit drop.
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Stable moisture around the root zone helps the tree maintain nutrient balance.
Without Mulch:
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Higher incidence of cracked or deformed fruits, reducing market value.
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Root zones are prone to waterlogging, increasing fungal disease risks.
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Significantly lower fruit-setting rates.
Economic Benefits of Mulching
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Higher yield: Increased fruit-setting rates and reduced risk of premature fruit drop.
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Improved fruit quality: More uniform, attractive fruits with fewer deformities or cracks.
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Reduced disease management costs: Minimizes disease outbreaks associated with excessive moisture.
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Tree protection: Keeps the soil structure around the base stable, enhancing the tree’s longevity.
Learn more: How to use plastic mulch effectively for durian cultivation?
Let BMFE accompany you on the journey to sustainable and high-value agriculture.
