Overview of Artocarpus integer auct.
Artocarpus integer auct., commonly known as chempedak or cempedak, is a tropical tree species that belongs to the Moraceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, specifically in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. This plant is a close relative of the jackfruit and shares many similarities in terms of its fruit-bearing characteristics.
Physical Appearance of Artocarpus integer auct.
The chempedak tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a diameter of up to 50 cm. It has large, dark green leaves that are about 15-40 cm long and 10-25 cm wide. The tree produces fruit that is ovoid or ellipsoid, with a length of up to 30 cm and a width of up to 15 cm. When ripe, the fruit has a yellow or orange skin that is covered in small spikes that are soft to the touch. The fruit can weigh up to 3 kg and is usually consumed when it is fully ripe.
Common Names and Uses of Artocarpus integer auct.
The chempedak tree is commonly known as cempedak or champedak in Malaysia, and as cha-mpedak or champada in Thailand. The fruit is popular in Southeast Asia and is consumed when ripe, cooked, or used as an ingredient in various dishes. The flesh of the fruit is firm, sweet, and fragrant, with a taste similar to that of the jackfruit. In Malaysia, chempedak is often eaten as a snack or used to make sweet treats such as ice cream, cakes, and pastries. The wood of the chempedak tree can also be used for construction and woodworking.
The seeds of the chempedak fruit are also used in traditional medicine in Southeast Asia. They are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and have been used to help relieve joint pain and inflammation. Additionally, the leaves and bark of the chempedak tree have been used in traditional medicine to help treat skin conditions, fever, and diarrhea.
Growth conditions of Artocarpus integer auct.
Artocarpus integer auct., commonly known as Chempedak, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. It is a close relative of the jackfruit tree and shares many of the same growth requirements.
Light requirements
Chempedak requires plenty of sunlight to grow and thrive. It grows best in full sun to partial shade, although it can tolerate some shade. If grown in shade, the tree will tend to become more open and leggy, with fewer fruit and smaller leaves.
Temperature requirements
Being a tropical tree, chempedak thrives in warm and humid conditions. It prefers temperatures above 15°C and, ideally, between 25 and 32°C. Temperatures below this range can slow down growth and affect fruit production.
Soil requirements
Chempedak grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. It can tolerate a range of soils, ranging from sandy loam to clay, but it prefers a slightly acidic soil (pH between 5.5 and 6.5). The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as waterlogging can stunt growth and cause the roots to rot.
It is recommended to improve soil fertility by adding organic matter, such as compost or manure, before planting chempedak trees. It is also important to periodically fertilize the tree to ensure it receives enough nutrients to support its growth and fruit production.
Overall, providing chempedak with ample sunlight, warm and humid conditions, and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil can help ensure the tree grows and produces fruit to its fullest potential.
Cultivation methods
The Artocarpus integer auct., commonly known as champedak, is a tropical evergreen tree that prefers a warm and humid climate. It requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant thrives in areas with temperatures ranging from 20 to 33°C and receives filtered sunlight or partial shade.
Watering needs
Champedak requires frequent watering during the growing season to keep the soil moist. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil, so it is crucial to ensure proper drainage. Overwatering leads to root rot, while inadequate watering leads to stunted growth. During the dry season, increase watering frequency to avoid wilting leaves and fruit drop.
Fertilization
Artocarpus integer auct. is a heavy feeder that requires regular feeding to promote optimal growth and fruit production. Apply a balanced fertilizer every two months during the growing season, starting in early spring, and reduce feeding during the winter months. Nitrogen-rich fertilizer promotes leaf growth while potassium-rich fertilizer promotes fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and size of the champedak tree. The best time to prune is during the dormant period in winter to promote vigorous growth during the growing season. Pruning also helps to remove diseased and damaged branches, promote air circulation, and increase light penetration. Avoid heavy pruning during the growing season as it may reduce fruit production.
Propagation methods of Artocarpus integer auct.
Artocarpus integer auct. is a tropical tree commonly known as Champedak. It is primarily propagated through seeds and grafting.
Seed propagation
Champedak seeds are sown in well-draining soil, preferably sandy or loamy soil. The seeds should be put into the ground with a depth of up to 5 cm. It is best to sow them directly on site since the plant has a taproot that can be damaged during transplantation.
The seeds should then be watered frequently to keep the soil moist. The growing site should also be well-lit but shaded from direct sunlight. It is recommended to keep the growing site at a temperature of 25-28°C to promote growth.
The germination period of Champedak seeds is within 2 to 3 weeks. After the appearance of the first pair of true leaves, the seedlings can be transplanted to a bigger pot or directly to the ground. It is important to note that Champedak planted from seeds may take up to 8 years before it reaches maturity and starts bearing fruits.
Grafting
Grafting is the most common and widely practiced method of propagating Champedak because it yields faster maturity and higher fruit quality. It involves taking a scion from a mature tree and grafting it onto a seedling rootstock.
The rootstock can be any variety of Artocarpus integer auct., but it is essential to choose one with known disease resistance. The scion must also be selected from a tree with desirable characteristics, such as high fruit yield and quality.
The process of grafting starts with making a diagonal cut on the rootstock and a corresponding cut on the scion. The two cuts are then joined together and fastened with a grafting tape. The grafted plants must be kept in a humid and warm environment with a temperature of 25-30°C. The plants can be transplanted when the graft union has formed and the plant has developed new leaves.
In conclusion, while seed propagation is a viable option, grafting is the preferred method of propagating Artocarpus integer auct. due to its faster maturity and higher quality fruit yield.
Disease and Pest Management for Artocarpus integer auct.
Artocarpus integer auct., commonly known as chempedak, is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the Moraceae family. The tree is known for its fast growth rate and high yield production of fruits. However, like all plants, chempedak is also susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here we will discuss some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Fruit Rot: This is a fungal disease that can cause the fruits to rot before they are fully ripe. The fungus can also spread to the other parts of the plants and cause damage. To manage this disease, it is recommended to practice good sanitation and remove any infected fruits and debris. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent the spread of the disease.
Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that can cause yellow spots on the leaves, which later turn brown and black. To manage this disease, it is recommended to regularly remove and dispose of fallen leaves, avoid overhead irrigation, and apply fungicides to prevent further spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Fruit Fly: The fruit flies can cause damage to the fruits by laying their eggs inside them. To manage this pest, it is recommended to regularly remove and dispose of any fallen fruits, use traps, and apply insecticides.
Aphids: These are small insects that can cause damage to the plant by sucking the sap. To manage this pest, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap sprays or neem oil.
Mealybugs: These are soft-bodied insects that can cause damage to the plant by sucking sap and secreting honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes fungal growth. To manage this pest, it is recommended to regularly spray the plant with water to wash off the bugs or use insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
In conclusion, taking good care of Artocarpus integer auct. is important to prevent and manage diseases and pests. Regular sanitation practices, application of appropriate pesticides, and early detection are some of the key methods for effective disease and pest management.
