HYDERABAD: Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) Tandojam has achieved a major breakthrough in climate-smart and export-oriented horticulture by successfully trialling Australian-model Small Tree System mango orchards at its Malir Model Farm, producing high-quality exportable fruit under efficient resource management practices. The innovative system focuses on maintaining compact, high-density orchards, where tree height is controlled between 7 to 9 feet with a canopy width of around two meters. The model has been implemented on five commercially valuable mango varieties, including Sindhri, Chaunsa, Lal Badshah, and others. Experts at SAU highlighted that this scientifically managed structure enhances nutrient and water-use efficiency, resulting in uniform fruit size, premium quality, and improved shelf life—essential attributes for export markets. The reduced tree height also enables easier harvesting, better pest monitoring, and safer packaging, while significantly reducing the need for chemical pesticides, making the system environmentally friendly and sustainable. Importantly, the initiative aligns with climate change adaptation strategies by promoting efficient water use and resilient orchard management. In this regard, portions of the experimental farm have been shifted to a drip irrigation system, ensuring precise water delivery and reduced wastage, and improved crop performance under water-scarce conditions. The project is expected to further strengthen the international competitiveness of Sindh’s mango varieties, including Sindhri, Chaunsa, Nawabpuri, Swarnika, and Lal Badshah, by meeting stringent export standards and quality benchmarks. Vice Chancellor Engr Prof Dr Altaf Ali Siyal visited the Malir Model Farm to review progress and expressed satisfaction over the results. He appreciated the efforts of the farm team and emphasised that such innovative, climate-resilient models are essential for transforming traditional agriculture into a modern, efficient, and export-driven sector. “This initiative will serve as a practical learning platform for students, researchers, and farmers, while also contributing to enhanced mango productivity and export potential across Sindh and beyond, ” he said. During the visit, the vice chancellor inspected the orchards and reviewed fruit development and overall crop condition, noting clear signs of the project’s success. The SAU experts reaffirmed its commitment to promoting advanced, climate-smart agricultural practices and strengthening research-extension linkages to ensure sustainable growth in the agriculture sector. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
SAU pioneers climate-smart mango orchards with Australian model
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