This comprehensive book provides an in-depth and multidisciplinary understanding of Guava (Psidium guajava L.), one of the most economically important and nutritionally rich fruit crops of tropical and subtropical regions. Designed for students, researchers, horticulturists, growers, and extension professionals, the book serves as an authoritative reference that connects classical horticultural knowledge with modern scientific advancements.

Beginning with the history, systematics, taxonomy, and morphological characteristics of guava, the book explores the crop from its evolutionary background to cutting-edge genetic insights. It offers detailed coverage of essential production components—including propagation, nursery management, rootstock utilization, planting density, nutrient and organic management, disease and pest control, and crop regulation practices. Special emphasis is placed on emerging technologies such as biochar application, biotechnological interventions, breeding prospects, and the development of improved varieties suited for diverse agro-climatic zones.

A dedicated chapter on nutritional value and cancer-preventive properties of guava highlights its significance as a functional food with remarkable health benefits. The book also includes region-specific production technology from Jammu & Kashmir, post-harvest handling practices, and value-chain considerations to enhance farm profitability and fruit quality.

With its blend of scientific rigor and practical insights, this book equips readers with the knowledge required for sustainable, high-yielding, and economically viable guava cultivation. It is an essential resource for modern horticulture education and field-level application.

Dr. Rakesh Kumar was born on March 5, 1977, in the village of Sangwal, India. He holds a B.Sc. in Agriculture from Agra University, and went on to earn both his M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Horticulture (Fruit Science) with first division honors from the Allahabad Agricultural Institute, Deemed University, in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh. A distinguished academic and researcher, Dr. Kumar has made significant contributions to the field of horticulture, particularly in fruit science. He has authored and co-authored numerous national and international research papers, as well as a book and several book chapters. His work reflects a deep commitment to advancing horticultural knowledge and practice. As a mentor and guide, Dr. Kumar has successfully supervised six M.Sc. students and one Ph.D. scholar as a major advisor, helping shape the next generation of researchers in the field. Throughout his career, he has received multiple prestigious awards from both national and international conferences and institutions in recognition of his scholarly achievements and contributions to horticulture. Dr. Kumar's dedication to fruit science continues to inspire students, researchers, and fruit growers alike, making him a respected figure in academic and agricultural communities.

Dr. Parshant Bakshi serves as Professor and Head of the Division of Fruit Science at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-J), where he boasts over 21 years of experience in fruit production, post-harvest technology, and molecular characterization of fruit germplasm He has authored 298 publications, with over 1,624 citations, an h-index of 23, and holds two patents and four fruit varieties in walnut, mango, and citrus. He has guided seven Ph.D. and ten M.Sc. scholars, led several national and international projects, and his technologies have been incorporated into SKUAST-J's Package of Practices. A Fellow of IAHS and awardee of MANAGE Agri Film Festival accolades (2022, 2024), he continues to be a distinguished mentor, researcher, and innovator in fruit science. His extensive research has advanced subtropical fruit cultivation, particularly guava, mango, aonla, and strawberry.                          

Dr. Reetika Sharma obtained her Ph.D. in Fruit Science at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu), with research on organic nutrient management in guava. She secured first rank in the Ph.D. entrance and received merit scholarships during her M.Sc. Her academic contributions include 14 research papers, 11 review articles, three book chapters, and over eight popular articles in reputed platforms. She has co-authored a practical manual and is also a reviewer for NAAS-rated journals. Her research interests focus on fruit science, organic horticulture, biochar, and sustainable production systems, with emphasis on improving fruit quality and resilience.                                                                       

Mr. Maanik Dadheechi obtained his M.Sc. in Horticulture (Fruit Science) from SKUAST-Jammu, specializing in propagation studies on Carissa carandas L. He has professional experience as Young Professional-II under HADP, Junior Agronomist at Indian Potash Ltd., and currently serves as Panchayat Secretary in the Department of Rural Development, Jammu & Kashmir. His scholarly contributions include 8 research papers, 10 review articles, one book chapter, and three popular articles in reputed platforms. He has also worked as reviewer for international journals. His research interests lie in fruit propagation, sustainable horticulture, bioresource management, and application of organic and biochar-based inputs

Chapter 1.History
Chapter 2.Systematic and Taxanomy 
Chapter 3.Morphology and Genetic Insights 
Chapter 4.Guava: Nutrition Value and Its Role in Cancer Prevention
Chapter 5.Propagation Techniques 
Chapter 6.Crop Regulation in Guava 
Chapter 7.Nursery Management in Guava 
Chapter 8.Role of Rootstocks in Guava
Chapter 9.Planting Density
Chapter 10.Pest, Disease and Disorder
Chapter 11.Nutrient Management in Guava
Chapter 12.Organic cultivation of Guava crop
Chapter 13.Impact of Biochar on Guava Cultivation
Chapter 14.Production Technology of Guava in J&K 
Chapter 15.Breeding Prospects
Chapter 16.Biotechnology
Chapter 17.Varieties
Chapter 18.Post Harvest Management