Origin
Manilkara propinqua, also known as Massaranduba, is a tropical tree species that is native to the Amazon basin, particularly Brazil, Colombia, and Peru. It is a member of the Sapotaceae family, which includes many other valuable timber species.
Common Names
Manilkara propinqua is known by several names, including Massaranduba, Bulletwood, Balata, and Brazilian Redwood.
Appearance
The Manilkara propinqua tree can grow up to 60 meters tall and its trunk can reach up to 2 meters in diameter. The bark is grayish-brown and has vertical fissures with raised ridges. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oblong-shaped, with a glossy dark-green color. Its flowers are small and whitish-yellow in color, and it produces a fruit that is oval, fleshy, and edible.
The wood of Manilkara propinqua is highly prized for its durability, strength, and beautiful reddish-brown color. It is commonly used for outdoor construction projects, such as decking, boardwalks, and bridges, as well as for indoor flooring, furniture, and cabinetry.
Uses
Traditional indigenous communities use Manilkara propinqua for medicinal purposes, particularly for treating skin conditions and malaria. The fruit is also edible, and its sweet pulp is commonly consumed fresh or used to make juices and desserts.
The resin from the tree, known as balata, has similar properties to rubber and is commonly used in the production of golf balls, shoe soles, and other rubber products. In the past, it was used to make gaskets for steam engines and other machinery. Today, synthetic materials have largely replaced balata in industrial applications.
Manilkara propinqua is also an important species for reforestation efforts, as it grows quickly and helps to prevent soil erosion. Its high-density wood and long lifespan make it a valuable resource for sustainable forestry practices.
Light Requirements
The plant Manilkara propinqua prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It is not a fan of direct sunlight as it can scorch the foliage, but it still requires a significant amount of light to properly grow and thrive. It is best to place it near a north or east-facing window, or provide it with a few hours of morning sun.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Manilkara propinqua is between 60-85°F (15-29°C). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it should be protected from freezing temperatures at all times. It is important to note that sudden drops in temperature can cause the plant to drop its leaves or suffer from leaf damage. Keep it away from air conditioning or heating vents.
Soil Requirements
Manilkara propinqua prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss is a good choice. The potted plant should not sit in standing water; make sure to use a pot with drainage holes or add a layer of gravel at the bottom of the pot to improve drainage. The plant does not require frequent repotting and should be repotted when its roots have outgrown its container.
Cultivation Methods
Manilkara propinqua can be cultivated in a sunny or partially shaded area with well-drained soil. Soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant prefers warm temperatures, with a range of 20-30°C, and high humidity.
Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings, with seeds taking longer to germinate. Softwood cuttings provide the best success rate for propagation. The plant can grow up to 20 meters high, so it's important to provide enough space for vertical growth.
Watering Needs
Manilkara propinqua requires moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry out partially between each watering. During periods of drought, the plant needs to be watered sufficiently, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Generally, watering once a week is enough for the plant to flourish.
Fertilization
During the growing season, it's recommended to fertilize the plant every two weeks to six weeks, depending on the type of fertilizer. Use a balanced fertilizer with a nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (NPK) ratio of 10-10-10 or 12-6-6. Alternatively, organic fertilizers can also be used, such as compost or manure.
Pruning
Manilkara propinqua does not require frequent pruning, but it's important to remove dead or damaged branches for optimal growth. Prune the plant during the dormant season, which is typically winter, to avoid shock and promote new growth in spring. When pruning, use sterilized pruning shears to avoid spreading diseases.
Propagation of Manilkara Propinqua
Manilkara propinqua, also known as Mimusops propinqua and locally called Bolong or Baluno in the Philippines, is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the Sapotaceae family. Propagation of Manilkara propinqua is usually done through seeds. However, propagation through cuttings and grafting can also be successful.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Manilkara propinqua are best sown fresh as they lose viability over time. Collect ripe fruits from the tree, remove the pulp, and wash the seeds to remove any remaining flesh. Soak the seeds overnight in water to help hasten germination.
Fill sterile seedling trays or seed pots with well-draining soil. Sow the seeds in the tray or pot and cover with fine soil. Water the tray or pot regularly and place in a warm, humid area with bright, indirect light. Seedlings usually emerge within 2 to 3 weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Softwood cuttings from Manilkara propinqua usually have a high rate of success. Take cuttings of green stem tips measuring around 10 to 15 centimeters long. Remove any leaves from the lower part of the cutting and dip the end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a container with a mixture of sand and peat moss and keep moist. The cutting should root within 2-3 months.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting propagation of Manilkara propinqua is done by using rootstock from a closely related species such as Mimusops globosa or Manilkara zapota. The scion should be taken from a mature healthy tree with a diameter of at least 2.5 inches. The rootstock and scion should be of the same diameter. Prepare a wedge cut on both the scion and rootstock, keeping the cuts as even as possible. Join the two plants together and wrap tightly with grafting tape or a cloth strip.
Manilkara propinqua is a beautiful tree with edible fruit and a straight trunk that can be used for timber. Propagation of Manilkara propinqua through seeds, cuttings, and grafting assures garden enthusiasts a large number of these trees perfect for landscaping and home gardens.
Disease and Pest Management for Manilkara Propinqua (S.Moore) H.J.Lam Plant
Manilkara propinqua is a tropical evergreen plant species that is grown primarily for its edible fruit. As with any plant species, it is susceptible to disease and pests. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Fruit Rots: Fruit rots are caused by fungal infections and can decimate a plant's fruit. Good orchard hygiene, including keeping the area free of fallen fruit and regular pruning to reduce crowding, can help prevent or reduce the incidence of fruit rot. Fungicides can be applied to affected plants and surrounding areas, but prevention is more effective than treatment.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause a white, powdery coating on leaves and fruit. It can be prevented by maintaining good orchard hygiene, removing affected plant parts, and using fungicides as necessary.
Bacterial Leaf Spot: Bacterial leaf spot can occur in wet, humid conditions and causes small, water-soaked spots on the leaves. Keeping the soil well-drained and avoiding overhead irrigation can help control this disease. Copper-based fungicides can be used to prevent or treat bacterial leaf spot.
Common Pests
Scale Insects: Scale insects can cause the leaves to yellow and stunt the plant's growth. They can be controlled by using a horticultural oil spray or introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.
Fruit Flies: Fruit flies can be a significant problem in orchards and can cause the fruit to rot prematurely. However, fruit flies can be managed by using traps or baits, covering the fruit, and practicing good orchard hygiene.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs can damage the leaves and fruit and can cause the plant's growth to be stunted. They can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil sprays, introducing natural predators, or manually removing them from the plant.
In conclusion, Manilkara propinqua is a valuable plant species that is susceptible to disease and pests. However, taking proper orchard hygiene measures and implementing pest and disease management techniques can preserve the health and productivity of your plant.
