Cactus Pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) Productivity, Proximal Composition and Soil Parameters as Affected by Planting Time and Agronomic Management in a Semi-Arid Region of India

Study of appropriate planting time and response to agronomic management practices is imperative for the newly introduced cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill.) into a semi-arid region India. Responses (planting irrigation fertilizer application) were evaluated determine potential fodder production livestock feed in environment We assessed four times (February, March, July October) two managements (with without during 2016–2020 at Jhansi, Cactus establishment growth improved with October due favorable soil moisture congenial temperature. However, plant height (19 cm) cladode weight (118 g) greater than planting. Nutrient uptake crude protein contents, however, higher earlier plantings February April compared June October. Irrigation nutrients application had little effect on growth, except width length width. can be planted moderately fertile soils any intervention situations India has as an effective alternative source forage summer months.