Table of Contents
Why Monsoon is the Best Time to Grow Chikoos
Choosing the Right Variety of Chikoo
Finding the Perfect Spot for Your Chikoo Tree
Preparing the Soil for Healthy Growth
Planting Chikoo Saplings or Seeds
Watering Chikoos During Monsoon
Mulching to Protect Your Plant
Managing Pests and Diseases Naturally
Feeding and Pruning Your Chikoo Tree
Harvesting Chikoos at the Right Time
Final Thoughts
Why Monsoon is the Best Time to Grow Chikoos?
If you’re wondering how to grow chikoos at home during monsoon, you’re in luck. The season provides the perfect balance of warmth and moisture that chikoo trees love. The rains keep the soil hydrated while the humidity helps young plants establish roots quickly.
Choosing the Right Variety of Chikoo
Not all chikoos are the same. Popular varieties like ‘Kalipatti’, ‘Cricket Ball’, and ‘Colada’ are known for sweet flavour and strong growth.
From Seeds: Slower, but produce strong root systems. May take 5–6 years to fruit.
From Grafted Saplings: Faster results (2–3 years), better fruit quality.
Tip: Buy saplings from a trusted local nursery to avoid diseased plants.
Finding the Perfect Spot for Your Chikoo Tree
Chikoos thrive in sunny, well-drained locations. Choose a spot with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Avoid waterlogged areas.
Plant on raised beds or slopes to prevent root rot.
Leave 4–5 metres of space around the tree since chikoos can grow up to 10–12 metres tall.
Preparing the Soil for Healthy Growth
Chikoos prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil. To prepare:
Dig a hole 45 cm deep and twice as wide as the root ball.
Mix in organic compost or farmyard manure.
Add sand for clay soils or compost for sandy soils.
This ensures the soil retains enough moisture while allowing roots to breathe.
Planting Chikoo Saplings or Seeds
Saplings: Place the root collar level with soil, backfill gently, and firm the soil.
Seeds: Plant 2–3 cm deep after soaking overnight. Germination takes 3–4 weeks.
Mulching: Use dried leaves or straw to lock in moisture.
Watering Chikoos During Monsoon
Even during rains, monitor soil moisture carefully.
Avoid waterlogging at all costs.
For young saplings: deep water once/twice a week.
For seeds: light watering every 2–3 days.
Use drip irrigation or a watering can to avoid fungal issues.
Mulching to Protect Your Plant
A 5–7 cm thick layer of mulch around the base helps:
Retain soil moisture.
Prevent weeds.
Regulate soil temperature.
Keep mulch a few cm away from the trunk to avoid fungal infections.
Managing Pests and Diseases Naturally
Chikoos can face mealybugs, aphids, fruit flies, and powdery mildew.
Use neem oil spray (eco-friendly).
Plant marigolds nearby to deter pests naturally.
Prune diseased branches early.
Feeding and Pruning Your Chikoo Tree
Fertilise every 3 months with 10-10-10 NPK fertiliser or organic vermicompost.
Apply around the drip line and water well.
Prune lightly to remove dead or crossing branches for better airflow and fruiting.
Harvesting Chikoos at the Right Time
Chikoos don’t ripen fully on the tree. Pick when they are dull brown and slightly soft.
Use sharp scissors/shears to avoid damage.
Let them ripen at room temperature for 2–3 days until sweet and fragrant.
Final Thoughts
Growing chikoo trees is not just about the fruit—it’s about the joy of nurturing life. By following these 10 easy steps to grow chikoos at home during monsoon, you’ll enjoy delicious, caramel-flavoured fruits straight from your garden.
Read Also: Top 10 Profitable Fruit Farming Ideas in India!
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