Phenophases of rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) based on extended BBCH- scale for Kerala, India

Abstract

This study describes the different phenological growth stages of rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) tree grown in India particularly in the state of Kerala where it has become one of the most treasured fruit particularly as a courtyard crop or on its fringes in the homegardens. A total of seven principal growth stages are described for bud, leaf, and shoot development, inflorescence emergence, flowering, fruit development, and fruit maturity according to the extended BBCH-scale. Within them fourty one secondary growth stages are also described. This detailed study on different phenophases of rambutan in relation to the prevailing environmental conditions can certainly serve as a basis for the standardization of agronomic and ecophysiological aspects of rambutan and thereby to promote the cultivation of this exotic fruit crop.