Advances in breeding and cultivation of pomegranate

Description

The pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is among the first cultivated crops in the world. However, consumers’ preference for this fruit was not high for many centuries due to the difficulty of extracting the arils for eating. Recent studies noting the superior pharmacological and therapeutic properties of pomegranate have caused a considerable increase in consumption and demand. This chapter presents and discusses recent studies and technologies relevant to the breeding and cultivation of pomegranate fruit crops, including propagation methods, planting systems, irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease management, fruit thinning, training and pruning, management of physiological factors and postharvest handling. Finally, the chapter looks ahead to future research trends in this area.

Table of contents

1 Introduction 2 Advances in pomegranate breeding 3 Advances in propagation methods 4 Advances in planting systems, training and pruning 5 Advances in irrigation and fertilization 6 Advances in pest and disease management 7 Advances in fruit thinning 8 Advances in physiological disorder management 9 Advances in postharvest handling 10 Conclusion and future trends 11 Where to look for further information 12 References