Overview:
Artocarpus rigidus Blume is a tall evergreen tree that belongs to the Moraceae family. It is commonly found in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. This plant is known for its durable timber and edible fruits.
Common names:
Artocarpus rigidus is commonly known by several names such as terap, marang, and timadang. In Indonesia, it is called terap while in the Philippines it is known as marang or johey oak. In Malaysia, it is called timadang and occasionally, hamparas.
General Appearance:
Artocarpus rigidus can reach up to 45 meters in height and has a trunk diameter of up to 70 centimeters. The tree has a straight, cylindrical trunk with a grayish-brown bark that is smooth and slightly flaky. The leaves are arranged alternately and are elliptical to ovate, measuring up to 25 centimeters in length and 15 centimeters in width.
The tree bears both male and female flowers. The male flowers are cylindrical, thin, and greenish-yellow while the female flowers are larger, greenish-yellow, and globular. The fruit of Artocarpus rigidus is large, roundish, and can weigh up to 2 kilograms. The fruit is covered with short and stiff spines that fall off when it becomes ripe, revealing a creamy and sweet flesh that is edible.
Uses:
Artocarpus rigidus has a wide range of uses. The tree's timber is known for its durability and is used for construction, furniture making, and boat building. The fruit is mainly consumed fresh and is known for its sweet and creamy flavor. It is also used to make jams, jellies, and ice cream. The leaves are used as fodder for livestock and the bark is used in traditional medicine for treating diarrhea and fever.
Light Requirements
The Artocarpus rigidus Blume plant thrives in bright light conditions but can withstand partial shade. The ideal location for the plant is close to a window that gets bright and indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause damage to the plant. Indoor growers can use artificial lighting to ensure that the plant receives enough light during the growth period.
Temperature Requirements
The temperature range that Artocarpus rigidus Blume plant needs to grow ideally is between 18°C to 26°C. The plant does not tolerate extreme temperatures and can die if exposed to prolonged periods of heat or frost. Growers ideal location for the plant is in a well-ventilated area to avoid temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
The Artocarpus rigidus Blume plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH range is between 6 and 7.5. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, the soil should not be heavy, compacted, or waterlogged. It is essential to add compost and fertilizers to the soil to ensure that the plant gets enough nutrients for optimal growth.
Cultivation methods
Artocarpus rigidus Blume is a hardy plant that prefers warm, tropical climates with high humidity levels. It prefers well-drained soils and grows well in sandy or loamy soils. The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Watering needs
Artocarpus rigidus Blume requires frequent and consistent watering. It should be watered deeply two to three times a week in the growing season and reduced to once a week in the dormant season. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Artocarpus rigidus Blume should be fertilized at least once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, are the best options for the plant's overall health. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to salt buildup in the soil.
Pruning
Artocarpus rigidus Blume does not require frequent pruning. However, it is essential to remove dead or diseased branches to prevent the spread of diseases. Pruning should be done after the fruiting season, which usually occurs in the winter months. Regular pruning of the lower branches is also necessary to facilitate air circulation and prevent pests and diseases.
Propagation of Artocarpus rigidus Blume
Artocarpus rigidus Blume, commonly known as Bendo or Monkey Jack, is a small to medium-sized tree that belongs to the Moraceae family. This plant is endemic to Indonesia and the Philippines, and it produces edible fruits that are rich in nutrients.
Seed Propagation
The most common method to propagate Artocarpus rigidus Blume is through seeds. The seeds should be collected from mature fruits, and they should be sown in a well-draining potting mix. The pots should be kept in a warm and humid place, and they should be watered regularly. The seeds will germinate in 2-4 weeks, and seedlings can be transplanted to individual containers when they reach a height of 10-15 cm.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Another method to propagate Artocarpus rigidus Blume is through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from young and healthy shoots, preferably during the rainy season. The cuttings should be approximately 15-20 cm long, and they should be treated with rooting hormones to enhance the rooting process. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining potting mix, and they should be covered with a plastic bag or kept in a mist chamber to maintain high humidity. The cuttings will root in 4-6 weeks, and they can be transplanted to larger containers when they develop enough roots.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is a less common method to propagate Artocarpus rigidus Blume, but it can be an efficient way to produce new plants. The air layering process involves making a vertical cut on a healthy branch and covering it with moist sphagnum moss or coconut coir. The covered section should be wrapped in a plastic bag to keep it moist, and roots will develop in 6-8 weeks. Once the roots have developed, the new plant can be detached from the mother plant and planted in a container with well-draining potting mix.
By using these propagation methods, it is possible to produce new plants of Artocarpus rigidus Blume and expand its cultivation for ornamental or fruit production purposes.
Disease Management
Artocarpus rigidus Blume, also known as monkey jack, is susceptible to several diseases like leaf spot, root rot, and sooty mold.
To prevent leaf spot, ensure there is good air circulation by planting the trees at an appropriate distance from each other. Regularly prune the affected leaves and destroy them. If the condition persists, treat the trees with copper-based fungicides.
Root rot may be caused by overwatering, poorly drained soil, or fungal infection. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal infections. If infections occur, remove and destroy the infected parts and treat the trees with fungicides.
Sooty mold may develop due to the presence of aphids and mealybugs. To prevent sooty mold, control the infestation of these insects using insecticidal soap or horticultural oils.
Pest Management
The Artocarpus rigidus Blume is also vulnerable to several pests that include aphids, mealybugs, scales, and thrips.
To avoid infestation by these pests, ensure the plants are healthy and stress-free by providing appropriate watering, soil fertility, and good drainage. Prune the affected parts and destroy them to prevent the spread of infestation.
If you notice an infestation, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oils at the early stage of infestation to prevent the spread of pests. For severe infestations, use systemic insecticides, but only as a last resort.
Regular monitoring and prompt action will help to manage the pests and maintain the health of the Artocarpus rigidus Blume.
