Standard Pruning Policy

In a pruning cycle, all forms of pruning / skiffings are introduced sequentially for distribution of crop and renewal of crop quality. In comparison to annual prune, which causes a heavy rush only during the main season, well-balanced extended pruning cycles provide an even distribution of crop resulting in an even flow to the factory throughout the season. The choice of pruning cycles depends on a number of factors, i.e. crop, labour, quality and market requirements, pests and diseases, climate and soil, bush height, age vigour and kind of tea. In normal growing corditions area, 3-4 years pruning cycle is suitable. In hilly area, depending upon elevation, a 4-5 year pruning cycle is suitable.

Normally Followed Pruning Cycles are:

1.      Well shades, young and vigorously growing tea areas: LP-UP-UP

2.     Normal tea growing areas: LP-UP-DS-UP

3.     Droughty areas: LP-UP-DS / LP-DS-UP

4.     Low elevation: LP-UP-DS-UP

5.     Mid and High elevation: LP-UP-UP-DS-UP

       Primary objective of leaving bushes unpruned or giving LS/LOS is to have more early and total crop. Therefore, conditions are favorable must be ensured  to achieve that objective. The first two cycles shown above are crop oriented and the 3-year cycle of LP-UP-DS or, LP-DS-UP is quality oriented.