Journal of Horticulture
Open Access

Crop Selection and Diversity in Tropical Horticulture

Frank Bedon^{* *}Correspondence: Frank Bedon, Department of Horticulture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China, Email:

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About the Study

Tropical horticulture is a branch of horticulture that focuses on the cultivation and management of plants in tropical regions. It encompasses various aspects of plant production, including crop selection, planting techniques, soil management, pest and disease control, and post-harvest handling. Tropical horticulture plays a vital role in the agricultural economies of many countries, providing food, income, and employment opportunities.

One of the defining characteristics of tropical horticulture is the warm and humid climate found in tropical regions. These regions are typically located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, where the sun is directly overhead at least once during the year. The consistent warmth and abundant rainfall in tropical areas create favourable conditions for plant growth, but they also present unique challenges that must be addressed to ensure successful cultivation.

Crop selection is a critical aspect of tropical horticulture. The choice of crops depends on various factors such as climatic conditions, soil type, market demand, and cultural preferences. Many tropical countries cultivate staple food crops such as rice, maize, cassava, and yams, which form the basis of their diets. Additionally, tropical fruits like mangoes, bananas, papayas, and pineapples are widely grown for local consumption and export. Planting techniques in tropical horticulture aim to optimize plant growth and yield. Due to the abundant rainfall and high temperatures, efficient water management is crucial. Irrigation systems such as drip irrigation and sprinklers are commonly used to supply water to crops, ensuring that they receive adequate moisture without being oversaturated. Planting methods like raised beds and contour planting help prevent soil erosion and improve drainage in areas with heavy rainfall.

Soil management is another important aspect of tropical horticulture. Tropical soils are often highly weathered and nutrient-deficient. Fertilizer application and soil amendments are necessary to replenish essential nutrients and maintain soil fertility.

Organic matter, such as compost and manure, is frequently added to enhance soil structure and water-holding capacity. Conservation practices like mulching and cover cropping help to reduce soil erosion and enhance nutrient cycling.

Pest and disease control is a constant challenge in tropical horticulture. The warm and humid conditions provide an ideal environment for the proliferation of pests and diseases. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies are employed to minimize the use of synthetic pesticides while effectively managing pests. This includes cultural practices, such as crop rotation and companion planting, biological control methods, and the judicious use of pesticides when necessary.

Post-harvest handling is a critical component of tropical horticulture. Proper handling and storage techniques are essential to maintain the quality and shelf life of harvested crops. Rapid cooling, packaging, and transportation are necessary to minimize post-harvest losses and ensure that produce reaches the market in optimal condition. Cold storage facilities and transportation infrastructure play a vital role in extending the shelf life and reducing spoilage of perishable tropical crops.

Tropical horticulture also contributes to sustainable development and environmental conservation. Agroforestry systems, which integrate trees with crops, are commonly practiced in tropical regions. These systems provide multiple benefits, such as improved soil fertility, carbon sequestration, and habitat for wildlife. Sustainable practices like organic farming, water conservation, and agroecology are gaining popularity in tropical horticulture, aiming to reduce environmental impacts and promote biodiversity. Moreover, tropical horticulture offers various economic opportunities. Small-scale farmers and rural communities often rely on horticultural crops for their livelihoods. The cultivation and sale of tropical fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants provide income and employment in many tropical countries. In addition, the export of tropical produce contributes to foreign exchange earnings and supports economic growth.