Cracked Spines in Durian: Causes and Solutions

Durian farmers have likely encountered the issue of cracked spines on their fruits. This is a common problem that significantly affects the quality and value of the fruit. So what are the causes of this condition, and how can it be fixed?

Main Causes of Cracked Durian Spines

• Calcium deficiency (Ca): Calcium plays a crucial role in forming the fruit's skin. When the tree lacks calcium, the fruit's skin becomes weak and prone to cracking.
• Excess nitrogen: Excessive nitrogen causes the plant to grow vigorously in leaves and branches but affects the formation of the fruit's skin.
• Excessive water: Excessive irrigation or overly moist soil is another cause of cracked spines.
• Overuse of growth stimulants: Overusing growth stimulants can cause nutrient imbalances, leading to cracked spines.

Symptoms of Calcium Deficiency in Durian

• Cracked spines: The spines on the fruit are cracked or broken.
• Cracked skin: The fruit's skin is cracked, exposing the flesh inside.
• Red spine tips: The tips of the spines have an abnormal red color.

Solutions for Cracked Durian Spines

• Calcium supplementation:
  • Fertilization: Use fertilizers with high calcium content.
  • Foliar application: Spray directly on the fruit with calcium-containing products for quick absorption.
• Adjust irrigation: Water adequately, avoiding overwatering or underwatering.
• Limit nitrogen application: Apply nitrogen only when necessary and follow the recommended dosage.
• Avoid overusing growth stimulants: Use growth stimulants rationally and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Why is calcium supplementation necessary?

Calcium is directly involved in the formation of cell membranes. A lack of calcium causes cells to separate easily. Often, we only focus on supplementing boron and forget about calcium for fruit development. Cracked spines and red spine tips appear very early, from when the fruit is 20 days old.

The Ri6 durian variety exhibits this condition most clearly and early. In addition to calcium-based fertilizers, directly spraying calcium onto the fruit is the fastest way for the fruit to absorb calcium and improve the condition if the fruit already has cracked spines.

It is important to avoid overusing growth stimulants and highly toxic pesticides. In addition, managing nitrogen and excess water also has a significant impact on reducing cracked spines.

Note on Ri6 durian variety

The Ri6 durian variety often exhibits cracked spines more clearly and earlier than other varieties. Therefore, it is essential to pay special attention to calcium supplementation for this durian variety.

Tips for preventing and treating cracked spines in durian

• Early detection: Regularly inspect the orchard to detect early signs of calcium deficiency.
• Prevention is better than cure: Regularly supplement calcium for durian trees, especially during the fruit development stage.
• Combine measures: Combine plant care measures such as fertilization, irrigation, and pest control to ensure healthy plant growth.