Overview of Artocarpus integrifolius auct.
Artocarpus integrifolius auct., also known as cempedak, is a tropical tree species within the Moraceae family. It is believed to be native to Southeast Asia, specifically in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.
Common Names of Artocarpus integrifolius auct.
Cempedak, chempedak, or champada are some of the most common names used to refer to the plant. In some Southeast Asian countries, it is also known as nangka belanda or "Dutch jackfruit."
Uses of Artocarpus integrifolius auct.
Cempedak is mainly cultivated for its delectable fruit, which is highly prized for its sweet and pungent taste. The fruit has a unique aroma and is commonly eaten fresh or used in traditional desserts, such as cakes and puddings. It is also used to flavor ice cream, jams, and other confectionery products. Additionally, the timber of the tree is used for construction, furniture-making, and carvings.
General Appearance of Artocarpus integrifolius auct.
The cempedak tree can grow up to 20 to 30 meters in height and has a dense, spreading crown. Its leaves are large, glossy, and oblong-shaped, with a length of up to 30 cm. The fruit of the cempedak tree is relatively small compared to other Artocarpus species, measuring around 15 to 20 cm in length and 10 to 12 cm in diameter. Its outer skin is covered in spiky protuberances, with the flesh inside divided into numerous yellowish, edible lobes that encase a hard seed in the center.
Light Requirements
The Artocarpus integrifolius, commonly known as Chempedak, requires full sunlight to grow optimally. This plant thrives in areas with 6-8 hours of direct and bright sunlight. Therefore, it is important to select a planting location where it can receive adequate sunlight throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
The Artocarpus integrifolius grows well in tropical or subtropical regions. It requires a warm and humid climate with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. These plants cannot withstand frost or extreme cold temperatures, so it is necessary to avoid planting them in areas with low-temperature conditions.
Soil Requirements
The Artocarpus integrifolius grows best in well-drained, fertile, and slightly acidic soil with pH levels ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should also be rich in organic matter. These plants are sensitive to waterlogged or poorly drained soil and may not grow well in such conditions. It is, therefore, necessary to ensure proper soil drainage to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Cultivation
Artocarpus integrifolius, commonly known as chempedak, can be grown in tropical regions with a consistent supply of rainfall and warm temperatures. It thrives in well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. Proper drainage is necessary to prevent waterlogging and root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant's health and growth. In its natural habitat, the plant can grow up to 25 meters tall, but in a cultivated setting, it usually reaches a height of about 10 meters.
Watering Needs
The chempedak plant requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. Young plants need to be watered more frequently, about 2-3 times a week, until they become established. However, adult plants can withstand long periods of drought without significant leaf loss or stunted growth. It's best to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, to avoid root problems.
Fertilization
Artocarpus integrifolius is a heavy feeder that requires regular fertilization for optimum growth and productivity. A balanced fertilizer with higher levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied every four months to promote healthy plant development, fruit production, and overall vitality. Care should be taken to avoid overfertilizing, as it can result in leaf burn and decreased plant vigor.
Pruning
Pruning chempedak trees is essential to maintain light penetration to the lower canopy, promote air circulation, and control plant size. Dead or diseased wood, water sprouts, and suckers should be promptly removed to prevent the spread of pests and diseases. Additionally, pruning can increase fruit production and improve fruit quality. The best time to prune the plant is during the dry season when the plant is less susceptible to damage or infection. Unnecessary pruning should be avoided as it can negatively affect the yield and growth of the plant.
Propagation of Artocarpus integrifolius
Artocarpus integrifolius, or chempedak, is a tropical fruit tree native to Southeast Asia that can grow up to 20 meters tall. The plant is propagated through several methods, including seed propagation, grafting, and air-layering.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for planting Artocarpus integrifolius. The seeds should be selected from mature fruits and sowed during the rainy season. The seeds must be planted in a well-prepared seedbed, with a sowing depth of approximately 1-2 cm. After sowing, the soil needs to be kept moist until germination takes place, which usually occurs within 2-3 weeks. The seedlings should be transplanted into individual pots when they reach 4-6 leaves, and then to their permanent location in 6-8 weeks.
Grafting
Grafting is another propagation method for Artocarpus integrifolius. It is usually done to maintain the desirable characteristics of selected cultivars. The best season for grafting is during the rainy season. Before grafting process, it is important to select healthy rootstock plants. The scion should be selected from healthy mother trees which have the desired characteristics that we want to propagate. The graft union is wrapped with polythene or grafting tape to avoid any infection and to provide support to the joining. The grafted plant should be kept in shade initially for a few weeks and gradually exposed to light after healing.
Air-layering
Air-layering is a propagation method that involves creating roots on an aerial stem of the plant, then separating it and planting it as a new plant. This method is a bit more complicated as compared to seed propagation and grafting. In this method, a mature branch with visible nodes is selected. The bark is removed from a section of the branch, and a rooting hormone is applied. The exposed area is then covered by moist moss or coconut coir and wrapped with polythene for a few weeks. When roots have formed, the branch is cut off from the original plant and planted in a well-drained potting mix. The newly propagated plant needs to be kept in shade for a few weeks until roots are properly established.
Disease Management
Artocarpus integrifolius, also known as chempedak, is susceptible to various diseases that can affect plant growth and fruit quality. Some common diseases include:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes circular, sunken spots on leaves, stems, and fruit. It can lead to defoliation and reduced fruit quality. To manage anthracnose, remove infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Apply fungicides containing copper or sulfur as a preventive measure.
- Root rot: This soil-borne disease affects the roots and can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and plant wilting. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Use fungicides containing mefenoxam, metalaxyl, or fosetyl-Al to control the disease.
Pest Management
Artocarpus integrifolius is also susceptible to various pests that can cause damage to leaves, stems, and fruit. Some common pests include:
- Fruit fly: This pest can cause significant damage to fruit by laying eggs inside the fruit. The larvae then feed on the flesh, causing it to rot. To manage fruit flies, remove infested fruit and use sticky traps to catch adults. Insecticides such as spinosad and malathion may also be used.
- Scale insects: These pests appear as small, brown bumps on leaves, stems, and fruit. They feed on plant sap, which can lead to stunted growth and reduced fruit quality. To manage scale insects, remove infected plant parts and apply insecticides such as neonicotinoids or pyrethroids.
