Overview of Artocarpus heterophylla Lam.
Artocarpus heterophylla Lam., also known as the jackfruit, is a tropical tree that is native to Southeast Asia, India, and the Philippines. It belongs to the Moraceae family and is closely related to other fruits such as breadfruit, figs, and mulberries. The tree can reach a height of up to 80 feet and has a broad, spreading canopy.
General Appearance and Characteristics
The leaves of Artocarpus heterophylla Lam. are large, glossy, and oval-shaped, measuring up to 9 inches in length. The tree produces oval-shaped fruits that can weigh up to 80 pounds and grow up to 3 feet in length. The fruit is covered with spiky bumps and has a pale green or yellowish-green exterior with a dense, fibrous interior that is divided into segments.
Common Names
The jackfruit goes by several names throughout the world. In English-speaking countries, it is commonly referred to as jackfruit, while in other parts of the world it is known as jakfruit, nangka, katahar, or kanun. In some cultures, the fruit is also referred to as the "tree mutton" due to its meaty texture and flavor.
Uses
The jackfruit is a versatile fruit that is used in a variety of dishes. It can be eaten raw or cooked and has a texture similar to pulled pork when cooked. In Southeast Asia, the unripe fruit is often used as a vegetable in curries and stews. The ripe fruit can be eaten as a dessert, juice, or used in smoothies. The seeds of the jackfruit are also edible and can be roasted or boiled. The wood of the Artocarpus heterophylla Lam. tree is used for furniture, while the bark and latex of the tree have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine.
Light Requirements
Artocarpus heterophylla Lam. thrives well in full sunlight. You should plant it in an area that receives ample amount of sunlight for good growth.
Temperature Requirements
The minimum temperature required for the growth of Artocarpus heterophylla Lam. is 13°C. However, it prefers an average temperature of 24°C for optimum growth. The plant can survive in a temperature range of 10-35°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils and grows well in sandy loam soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH range should be between 6.0-7.5, and it should be fertile with good moisture content. Adequate drainage is essential as the plant may not tolerate water-logged soils.
Cultivation of Artocarpus heterophylla Lam.
Artocarpus heterophylla Lam., commonly known as Jackfruit, requires warm temperatures and ample humidity to grow effectively. It thrives in well-drained soil that is enriched with organic matter. The plant can grow up to 33 meters tall, so there should be enough space to allow proper growth. It's best to plant the tree in a location that provides it with partial shade to ensure it grows steadily.
Watering Needs for Artocarpus heterophylla Lam.
Jackfruit trees require a consistent supply of water throughout their growing period, particularly during hot and dry weather. However, excessive watering should be avoided, as it can result in root rot and other issues. Watering should be done deeply and regularly to allow for the plant to properly benefit.
Fertilization for Artocarpus heterophylla Lam.
Jackfruit plants require fertilization to promote growth and fruit development. Apply a fertilizer balanced with potassium, phosphorus and nitrogen, especially during the tree's active growth period. A balanced supply of nutrients can promote good health and high yields. Be sure to apply the proper amount and frequency of fertilizers to avoid harming the plant.
Pruning of Artocarpus heterophylla Lam.
Jackfruit trees should be pruned regularly to maintain their proper shape and height. Pruning will promote the growth of new shoots and eliminate dead or diseased branches. Be careful not to over-prune the plant, as it can lead to decreased fruit production. Pruning is best done after harvesting season ends when the tree enters dormancy. Proper pruning timing can ensure the plant presents increased and sustained productivity.
Propagation of Artocarpus heterophylla Lam.
Artocarpus heterophylla Lam., commonly known as Jackfruit, is propagated in a number of ways:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the easiest and most common method of propagating Artocarpus heterophylla. The seeds obtained from the ripe fruit are cleaned, soaked in water for few hours, and sowed in poly bags or pots filled with enriched soil mix. The seedlings take around three to four years to grow into saplings, ready for transplantation in the main field.
Vegetative Propagation
The vegetative propagation technique is used to propagate specific, superior cultivars. This method preserves the desirable characteristics of the plant. The vegetative propagation methods used are:
Budding:
The bud patch method of budding is commonly used in Artocarpus heterophylla. A patch of bud is taken from the chosen cultivar, the bark of a younger plant of the same species is sliced to create a patch, and the bud is inserted. After a few months, the patch is opened to check if the bud has established.
Grafting:
Grafting is the process of joining two or more different plants or plant parts. In Artocarpus heterophylla, cleft grafting is commonly used. A scion from the desired cultivar is inserted into a cleft made in the rootstock of a healthy plant. The plant is kept in a humid chamber for a few days to ensure the graft is successful.
Air Layering:
Air layering can be used to create identical clones of Artocarpus heterophylla. The technique involves taking a branch of the plant, peeling away a section of bark, and packing the wound with sphagnum or peat moss. After the roots have formed, the new plant is cut off from the parent plant and transplanted.
Disease and Pest Management for Artocarpus heterophylla Lam.
Artocarpus heterophylla Lam., commonly known as jackfruit, is a tropical fruit tree which is prone to several diseases and pests. Understanding the common diseases and pests that affect the plant and the ways to manage them is crucial for its healthy growth.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that affects jackfruit trees is anthracnose. It is caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and is characterized by black, sunken lesions on leaves and fruits. To manage anthracnose, it is important to remove and destroy infected plant debris, avoid over-irrigation, and apply fungicides containing copper or mancozeb.
Another disease that can affect jackfruit trees is powdery mildew. This is caused by fungal pathogens and leads to a powdery white coating on the leaves and fruit. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to remove affected plant parts and avoid overhead irrigation. Fungicides containing potassium bicarbonate, neem oil, or sulfur can also be applied.
Common Pests
Jackfruit trees can be attacked by several pests, including fruit flies, scales, and mealybugs. The fruit flies lay their eggs inside the fruit and can cause significant damage. One way to manage them is to collect and destroy the infested fruit. Another method is to use insecticides containing spinosad or malathion.
Scales and mealybugs are other common pests that attack jackfruit trees. They feed on plant sap and secrete a sticky substance that attracts ants. To manage them, it is important to keep the tree healthy and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the affected areas. Pruning heavily infested areas can also be beneficial.
Conclusion
Disease and pest management is crucial for the healthy growth of Artocarpus heterophylla Lam. Proper sanitation practices, timely application of fungicides and insecticides, and maintaining the overall health of the plant can help prevent the diseases and pests from causing significant damage to the tree.
