Phenological growth stages of jujube tree (Ziziphus jujube): codification and description according to the BBCH scale

Abstract The phenological growth stages of jujube tree are first described here using the BBCH scale. Based on this general scale, jujube phenology showed 8 of the 10 principal stages (0–9): bud, leaf and shoot development, inflorescence emergence, flowering, fruit development, fruit maturity and senescence. A schematic representation of the chronological progression of principal growth stages of jujube is also shown. The codification of the different growth stages is important for correct timing of general orchard management, particularly for disease and pest management. Besides, it will help farmers to efficiently schedule and manage jujube cultivation, as well as to improve knowledge dissemination among scientists around the World.