The Leanri mandarin continues to establish itself as one of the most attractive options in the citrus sector. Its flavor, size, and adaptability have sparked growing interest among growers, traders, and agricultural experts. During the Open Field Day at the Viveros Alcanar farm, specialists and growers discussed the latest findings on managing this protected variety.
Key topics such as flowering, fruit set, and water management were discussed, all of which are crucial for ensuring productivity and crop stability. The exchange of knowledge among attendees helped refine management strategies, maximizing Leanri’s profitability without compromising fruit quality.
Precision Management
One of the key insights from the meeting was Leanri’s capacity to produce significantly more flowers than other varieties. While a Clementine tree typically produces between 180 and 210 flowers, Leanri can reach up to 400. However, this high flowering rate does not always translate into higher yields, as flower quality plays a crucial role in successful fruit set.
To enhance this process, specialists recommended applying gibberellins at the petal-fall stage, a practice that strengthens early-developing fruits and reduces competition among developing ovaries. Additionally, the branch girdling technique, commonly used in varieties like Orri, was highlighted as a method to promote carbohydrate accumulation in the canopy and enhance fruit retention.
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Another key topic discussed was the importance of adjusting water supply at critical stages of fruit development to optimize yields.
Development and prospects
Since the initial Leanri plantings in 2016, the variety has demonstrated consistent growth in productivity and stability. At the Alcanar farm, results have been promising, with production increasing from 20-22 tons per hectare in the first harvest year (2022) to 32-33 tons in the second year and 35 tons in the third.
However, climatic conditions continue to be a critical factor. Last season, strong winds reaching 120 km/h affected part of the harvest, underscoring the importance of strategic pruning to mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions.
