Irvingia smithii Hook.f.
Irvingia smithii Hook.f. is a tree species belonging to the family Irvingiaceae. Commonly known as the wild mango or bush mango, it is native to the tropical rainforests of West and Central Africa, where it grows as an evergreen tree to a height of 20-40 meters.
General Appearance
The tree's bark is rough and grey-brown in color. It has a dense crown with leaves that are deep green, glossy and oval-shaped, measuring up to 20cm long by 10cm wide. The tree produces fruits that are spherical, green initially and turns yellow when ripe. The fruit is usually 8- 10cm long and 7 to 9cm wide, containing a single hard seed in the center, which is surrounded by edible pulp.
Uses
The fruit of Irvingia smithii Hook.f. is a popular food source in Africa. The fruit pulp is often used to prepare sauces and stews and can be eaten raw. The seed of the wild mango is also used to produce a traditional medicine, which is believed to have various medicinal properties, including treating diabetes, diarrhea, and high blood pressure. The tree's wood is a popular source of timber due to its durability and hardness and is used for building construction, furniture, and other applications.
Light Requirements
Irvingia smithii Hook.f. thrives in full sunlight and requires bright light for optimal growth. This plant can tolerate partial shade, but it may slow down its growth and produce smaller fruits.
Temperature Requirements
The preferred temperature range for Irvingia smithii Hook.f. is between 23°C to 27°C (73°F to 81°F). This plant requires warm conditions all year round and can be sensitive to frost and cold temperatures. In cooler months or regions, the plant must be protected from frost, which can damage or kill it.
Soil Requirements
Irvingia smithii Hook.f. prefers deep, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH range is between 5.5 to 6.5. This plant is also sensitive to waterlogging and requires soil that can hold moisture but not become waterlogged. Drainage is of utmost importance, and the soil should be able to drain excess water effectively.
Cultivation Methods
Irvingia smithii Hook.f., commonly known as wild mango, is a tropical tree species that originated from West Africa. It is a valuable plant for both its fruits and its wood. Cultivating Irvingia smithii requires a warm, humid climate, with an average temperature of 25-30°C. The plant thrives well in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter.
The best time to plant Irvingia smithii is during the rainy season. The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Cuttings from mature trees have better chances of survival than those of younger trees. Once planted, it is essential to provide the plant with adequate care to ensure that it grows healthy and produces high-quality fruits.
Watering Needs
Irvingia smithii requires regular watering, especially during the first few months of growth. The plant should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. It is essential to avoid overwatering the plant, as this can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. Watering should be reduced during the dry season, but the soil should always be kept moist.
Fertilization
Irvingia smithii requires regular fertilization to promote growth and fruit production. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 2:1:1 is ideal for the plant. The fertilizer should be applied at least three times a year – at the beginning of the rainy season, during the peak of the rainy season, and towards the end of the rainy season. It is essential to avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can lead to the growth of weak shoots that are susceptible to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of Irvingia smithii cultivation. Regular pruning helps to shape the tree and control its size. The best time to prune the plant is during the dry season, preferably in February or March. Pruning should involve the removal of dead, diseased, or weak branches. It is also essential to remove any shoots that grow below the graft union, as these can lead to the growth of a weaker rootstock. Pruning should be done with clean and sharp tools to avoid damaging the tree.
Propagation of Irvingia smithii Hook.f.
Irvingia smithii Hook.f., commonly known as bush mango, is a plant native to West and Central Africa. It is a valuable tree crop due to its nutritious fruit, which is rich in vitamins and minerals, and the plant's timber, used for construction and fuel.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Irvingia smithii is through seed. The seeds should be collected from ripe fruits, washed, and soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the hard outer shell. The seeds should then be planted in a nursery container filled with a well-draining soil mixture that is kept moist to aid germination. Germination will depend on soil temperature, and it usually takes between two to four weeks for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings are big enough, they can be transplanted to a larger container or directly into the field.
Cuttings Propagation
Irvingia smithii can also be propagated through cuttings, although this method is less common. The best time to take cuttings is during the vegetative period, when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings are usually taken from the top of the tree and should be about 20-25 cm long. The bottom of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting to encourage root growth. Cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture, kept moist, and protected from direct sunlight until they have established roots.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method of propagating Irvingia smithii. This method involves making a cut on the stem of the plant, wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss or another suitable rooting medium, and wrapping it with plastic film to create a mini greenhouse. The plastic film should be removed regularly to check for root growth and to ensure that the rooting medium stays moist. Once roots have developed, the stem can be cut off the parent plant and transplanted.
Propagation of Irvingia smithii can be a bit challenging due to its slow growth rate and susceptibility to pests and diseases. However, with proper care and attention, it is possible to successfully propagate this valuable tree crop.
Disease Management
Irvingia smithii Hook.f. is a relatively disease-resistant plant, but it can still be affected by some common plant diseases. The most frequent diseases that affect Irvingia smithii Hook.f. are:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots, stem cankers, and fruit rot. Young leaves and shoots are more susceptible to anthracnose, which can be managed by removing infected plant parts and applying a fungicide.
- Leaf Spot: This can be caused by several fungi that attack the leaves, causing small round spots that enlarge over time. Leaf spots can be controlled by removing infected leaves and applying a fungicide.
- Powdery Mildew: This disease causes a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves and stems and can be prevented by maintaining good air circulation and controlling plant stress by providing proper watering and fertilization.
Pest Management
Irvingia smithii Hook.f. is vulnerable to several pests that can affect its growth and yield. The most common pests that affect Irvingia smithii Hook.f. are:
- Fruit Fly: The female fruit fly lays eggs under the skin of the fruit, and the hatching larvae will cause fruit drop or dry fruit. Pruning infested parts, using pheromone traps and applying an insecticide can mitigate the damage.
- Stem Borer: These pests tunnel through the plant's stem and cause significant damage. Affected plants can be treated by removing infested plant parts and applying an insecticide.
- Leaf Miners: The larvae of leaf miner insects feed on the contents of the leaves, leaving visible trails and causing reduced growth. Applying an insecticide and removing affected areas can prevent the spread of the pest.
