Regional Durian R&D Program: Enhancing Productivity and Sustainability of the Durian Industry in Southern Mindanao for Improved Market Access – Phase 1

Project 1. Durian Tree Management for Optimum Production

Project 2. Optimum Fertilization to Enhance Yield and Quality of Durian in Southern Philippines

Project 3. Evaluation of the Response of Selected Native Durian Lines Used as Rootstock against Phytophthora palmivora Butler

The durian variety studied was the Puyat. The following are the recommended three best practices to improve yield and fruit quality:

1. Fruit thinning –  6 weeks after fruit set
2. Flower thinning before pollination (extend maturity period by 2-4 weeks)
3. Pruning at low lying branches (below 1m) and detopping of 10-m tall trees to 7-8 m