Flower Induction in Durian

Floral Induction in Durian is a comprehensive technical reference dedicated to the science and practice of durian flowering, fruit development, cultivar selection, nutrition, and production management. Drawing on more than two decades of research and field experience in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, the book connects physiological principles with practical orchard techniques for growers, researchers, educators, students, and extension specialists.

A central strength of the book is its detailed treatment of durian floral induction. It explains the environmental, nutritional, hormonal, and physiological factors that regulate flowering, while also outlining applied techniques such as water management, Paclobutrazol use, flower thinning, supplementary pollination, and post-flowering crop care. These topics are presented with strong emphasis on cultivar-specific responses and field applicability.

The book also provides a broad overview of the global and regional durian industry, including production trends, market dynamics, export development, consumer demand, and the rapid emergence of Vietnam as a major international supplier. Special attention is given to China’s dominant role in global demand, the competitive positioning of Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Laos, and the need for sustainable market diversification.

Another important feature is the extensive comparison of commercial durian cultivars. The book documents key varieties from Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, and other producing regions, highlighting their origin, fruit quality, flowering behaviour, harvest timing, market value, and susceptibility to physiological disorders. Particular emphasis is placed on commercially significant cultivars such as ‘Monthong’, ‘Ri 6’, ‘Musang King’, ‘Black Thorn’, ‘Chanee’, ‘Kanyao’, ‘D24’, and traditional Vietnamese selections.

The book places strong practical emphasis on fruit quality management, especially the prevention of soggy core, uneven ripening, fruit drop, pulp disorders, and heavy metal residue concerns. Its chapters on nutrition and fertilizer management clarify the roles of macro- and micronutrients, with particular attention to Calcium and other elements involved in fruit set, aril development, stress tolerance, and export quality compliance.

By integrating scientific evidence, historical context, cultivar descriptions, production data, and field-based recommendations, this book serves as both a technical handbook and a strategic reference for modern durian cultivation. It is especially valuable for readers seeking to improve flowering control, optimise yield and fruit quality, adapt to climate-related production challenges, and support the sustainable development of the durian industry