The pattern and control of reproductive development in lychee: A review

Abstract

Often there is no relationship between yield and flower production in lychee (Litchi chinensis Sonn,). This is because of the high rate of premature flower and, especially, fruit abscission between floral initiation and fruit maturation. There is the possibility that low female-to-male sex ratio, lack of pollinating insects, poor pollen transfer, low pollen viability and failure of pollen tube growth may also reduce fruit set, while poor fruit development may reduce final fruit size.

Detailed studies are required on the effects of genotype and environment (temperature, soil moisture, humidity and mineral nutrition) on the growth and abscission of the flowers and fruit. Potential techniques for improving the setting and retention of fruit include varietal selection, withholding of nitrogen fertilization during flowering and early fruit growth (to reduce vegetative flushing), and the maintenance of plant moisture status (irrigation, overhead misting and windbreaks).