Overview
Artocarpus tamaran Becc. is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Moraceae. The species is native to New Guinea and other Pacific islands. It is commonly known by several other names including breadfruit, shore breadfruit, and seedless breadfruit. It is a popular plant with numerous uses.
Description
Artocarpus tamaran Becc. is a medium-sized to large tree that grows up to 25 meters tall. The tree has a broad, dense crown that provides substantial shade. The leaves are large and glossy, measuring up to 40 cm long and 25 cm wide, and have a unique lobed appearance. The flowers are small and unisexual. The fruit of the tree is round to oblong with a diameter of about 15-20 cm. The fruit's flesh is starchy, and once cooked, it tastes and smells similar to freshly baked bread, hence the common name 'breadfruit.'
Uses
Artocarpus tamaran Becc. is a highly valuable plant that has a wide range of uses. In traditional medicine, the bark, leaves, and roots of the plant are used to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and skin diseases. The fruit is widely consumed as food, either cooked or roasted, mainly in tropical regions. The fruit is also processed into flour, which is used to make bread, cakes, and biscuits. The plant's wood is of high value in the construction industry, and its bark is also used in basket weaving.
Typical Growth Conditions for Artocarpus tamaran Becc.
Artocarpus tamaran Becc. is commonly known as the tamaran or tangarana tree. It is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the family Moraceae. This tree is native to the Pacific Islands and is well adapted to tropical climates.
Light Requirements
Artocarpus tamaran Becc. requires bright, indirect sunlight to grow well. The tree can tolerate partial shade but may not bear fruit if it doesn't get enough sunlight. When grown indoors, it is important to place the tree near a window that receives a lot of sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Artocarpus tamaran Becc. thrives in warm temperatures between 25-35°C (77-95°F). The tree can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C (59°F) but may suffer from cold damage if exposed to temperatures below this range. It is important to protect the tree from frost and keep it in a warm environment during the winter.
Soil Requirements
The tamaran tree grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. It requires soil that is slightly acidic or neutral, with a pH between 6.0-7.0. The soil should not be allowed to dry out completely but should be moist. The tree can tolerate some level of salinity but prefers soil that is moderately saline.
In summary, Artocarpus tamaran Becc. requires bright, indirect sunlight, warm temperatures, and well-draining, nutrient-rich soil to grow well. By providing these growth conditions, you can ensure that your tamaran tree thrives and bears fruit for years to come.
Cultivation
Artocarpus tamaran Becc. commonly known as Tamaran fruit is native to Papua New Guinea and is usually cultivated in tropical regions. The plant prefers well-drained soils and needs to be planted in areas with full sunlight exposure. It is a perennial plant, and it's propagated through seeds and suckers.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is essential for Tamaran fruit growth and productivity. The plant needs to be adequately watered to keep the soil moist. Watering should be done regularly and deeply, especially during the dry season. However, excessive watering should be avoided as it may lead to root rot and poor growth.
Fertilization
Fertilization helps to promote growth and yield in Tamaran fruit. The recommended fertilizers are nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium (NPK). The fertilizers help in promoting leaf growth, stem and root development, and flower bud formation. Fertilizing should be done at least twice a year during the rainy season to enhance absorption and utilization of nutrients by the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for controlling the size and shape of the plant and also for promoting fruiting. The pruning should be done during the dry season by removing dead, diseased, and damaged branches. The removal of overcrowded branches also helps in enhancing proper air circulation and sunlight penetration, which reduces pest and disease infestation.
Propagation of Artocarpus tamaran Becc.
Artocarpus tamaran Becc., commonly known as Terap or Marang, is a plant species from the Moraceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia and is cultivated for its edible fruits.
The plant can be propagated through several methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds of the Artocarpus tamaran Becc. are used for propagation, and they can be collected from mature fruits. Before sowing, the seeds are soaked in water for 24-48 hours to soften the seed coat. The seeds are then sown in seed trays or pots containing a well-draining potting mix. The trays or pots are kept in a warm, humid place, and the seeds usually germinate within 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings are established, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Vegetative propagation
Artocarpus tamaran Becc. can also be propagated vegetatively through these methods:
Air layering
Air layering is a method of propagating plants where the stem of the plant is wounded, and then induced to produce roots before being severed from the mother plant. It is an effective method for Artocarpus tamaran Becc. Propagation through air layering involves selecting a healthy branch that is about one year old and has a diameter of 1-2 cm. The bark of the branch is removed from a section of the stem, and rooting hormone is applied to the wounded area. A moistened sphagnum moss is then wrapped around the wounded area and secured with plastic wrap. Roots usually form in 2-3 months. Once the roots have developed, the stem is cut below the rooting zone, and the new plant is potted and cared for until it is established.
Stem cutting
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Artocarpus tamaran Becc. The cuttings should be taken from healthy branches with at least two nodes. The lower leaves are removed, and the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining potting mix, and kept damp until it starts growing. Within a few weeks, new roots will develop, and the new plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Suckers
Artocarpus tamaran Becc. produces suckers, which are young shoots that emerge from the base of the plant. These suckers can be separated from the mother plant and transplanted to a new location. The suckers are usually transplanted when they are about 30 cm tall.
Propagation of Artocarpus tamaran Becc. can be done through seed or vegetative methods, depending on the grower's preference and available resources. Whatever propagation method is selected, care should be taken to ensure the new plant is healthy and receives adequate care until it is established.
Disease and Pest Management for Artocarpus Tamaran Becc.
Artocarpus tamaran Becc., commonly known as the tamarind tree, is a fruit-bearing plant that belongs to the pea family. It is highly valued for its medicinal properties but is vulnerable to diseases and pests that can affect the quantity and quality of its fruit production. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and suggestions for managing them:
Diseases
Fungal leaf spot - This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora spp. and appears as small, circular spots that are dark brown or black in color. It can cause defoliation if left untreated. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Root rot - Caused by the fungus Fusarium spp., this disease can cause yellowing of the leaves, wilting, and eventual death of the plant. It is prevalent in wet conditions and poorly drained soils. To manage this disease, improve soil drainage, avoid over-watering, and apply a fungicide to infected plants.
Pests
Fruit fly - The tamarind fruit fly is a major pest that damages the fruit and reduces the yield. They lay their eggs on the immature fruits, and the resulting maggots feed on the fruit, causing it to rot. To manage this pest, remove and destroy infested fruits, apply insecticides, and practice good orchard sanitation.
Spider mites - These tiny arachnids can cause yellowing of the leaves, defoliation, and stunted growth. They thrive in hot, dry conditions. To manage this pest, avoid over-fertilizing, maintain adequate moisture levels, and apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil according to the manufacturer's instructions.
By practicing good cultural practices such as providing proper irrigation, fertilization, and pruning, you can help keep your Artocarpus tamarind Becc. healthy and minimize the risk of diseases and pest infestations.
