Sapota- Planting activities

Sapota is propagated through layering and grafting. Around 80 plants can be accommodated in an acre.

Inarching is the grafting method followed. Manilkara hexandra (khirni) is the rootstock for inarching in sapota. The best time of planting is May-June.

Planting is done in pits of 60 cm x 60 cm x 60 cm at a square spacing of 7-8 m. Contour planting is recommended in case of sloping land.

The pits are taken a little in advance and filled with top soil. Grafts or layers are planted one in each pit. Care is taken to see that graft union is at least 15 cm above the ground level.

Periods of heavy rains are avoided for planting. After planting, stakes are provided to avoid wind damage. Young plants should also be protected from the sun.