Growing exotic fruit trees in Luzon

Contrary to a long held belief, Davao and other exotic fruit trees can be grown in Luzon and every profitably at that. The key is the technology of cloning and multiple root stocking

Past planting of the exotic fruit trees has been disappointing. Durian, mangosteen, pummelo, lanzones and rambutan from Davao and other imported fruit trees were either stunted in growth and did not bear fruits or died for lack of the right technology.

Due to differences in soil and climate conditions, technology from Davao and other countries should be modified to suit local conditions in Luzon. Bernie Dizon, noted pomologist in Luzon, says culture and technology in Davao and other countries cannot be copied One hundred percent; they have to be modified.

Dizon mages a 4,000- square meter orchard at the Ninoy Aquino parks and wild life along North Avenue in Quezon City under a 20- year contract with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

There he gives free lectures to interested farmers and hobbyist every Saturday and Sunday on the latest technologies. Estublished in 1992 in a waterlogged area (2,000 square meters) with no forest trees because of adobe soil and thin top soil, Dizon’s modified technology (cloning and multiple rootstocking) converted the poor marginal land into a paradise of local and imported exotic varieties of fruit trees.

Because of the project’s success then Environment and Natural resources Secretary Victor O. Ramos expanded Dizon’s area by another 2,000 square meters. He also commended Dizon for his excellent work in showcasing the agro- forestry program of the government.

Dizon advises orchard growers and hobbyist to study first the cultural requirements of each variety before deciding which cultivar plant. A lot could be learned from the free seminars which Dizon conducts every weekend.

Ramon Ma. Epino, October 3, 2004,The Philippine Star

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