Abstract
Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana), known for its resilience to harsh climatic conditions, is increasingly cultivated in arid and semi-arid regions where saline water is often the only irrigation source. This study aims to evaluate the impact of saline irrigation water on the growth, yield, and fruit quality of ber under controlled field conditions. A split-plot experimental design was employed at the LNCT University farm in Bhopal, using four irrigation water salinity levels (0.5, 2.0, 4.0, and 6.0 dS/m) and three soil management practices (control, organic mulch, and gypsum with drip irrigation). Five-year-old 'Umran' ber trees grafted on Ziziphus rotundifolia rootstock were used for uniformity. Key parameters observed included plant height, canopy spread, fruit number, average fruit weight, yield per tree, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity, ascorbic acid content, and total sugars. Results indicated that moderate salinity (up to 2.0 dS/m) did not significantly hinder vegetative growth or yield, but levels beyond 4.0 dS/m led to noticeable declines. The highest yield (42.5 kg/tree) and best fruit quality (TSS: 17.2°Brix, ascorbic acid: 105 mg/100g) were recorded in the 2.0 dS/m + organic mulch treatment. Severe salinity (6.0 dS/m) caused yield reduction up to 38% and deterioration in fruit palatability. The study concludes that while ber shows moderate tolerance to saline irrigation, combining saline water management with soil amelioration strategies like organic mulching can sustain productivity and fruit quality even under challenging irrigation conditions.
