Manilkara sublacera A.Chev.
Manilkara sublacera A.Chev. is a tropical tree native to west and central Africa. It is commonly known as African bulletwood, balata, and milk tree because of the milky sap it produces.
Appearance
The tree can grow up to 30 meters in height and has a dense, rounded canopy of shiny green leaves that provide excellent shade. The bark is dark gray and rough, with deep fissures. The tree produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that develop into small, round fruit with a sweet pulp and a single seed.
Uses
The sap of Manilkara sublacera A.Chev. is used in many applications, including as a natural adhesive and as a source of latex for making rubber. The seeds can be used as an oil source, and the wood is used for furniture, construction, and as a fuel source.
Traditionally, the sap has been used in African medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including skin infections, fever, and gastrointestinal problems.
Overall, Manilkara sublacera A.Chev. is a valuable resource for local communities in west and central Africa, providing a wide range of benefits for both people and the environment.
Light Requirements
Manilkara sublacera A.Chev., also known as subgum or subgum plum, grows well in full sun to partial shade. However, it may not thrive in low light conditions. Therefore, it is best to provide it with enough sunlight exposure for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the growth of Manilkara sublacera is in the range of 20 to 32°C. It is a tropical plant that can tolerate high temperatures, but it may not survive freezing temperatures. Therefore, it is advisable to protect the plant in winter seasons when the temperature drops below 10°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-drained soil with good organic matter content. It prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should also be nutrient-rich with sufficient amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It can also tolerate sandy soils, but it is important to ensure the substrate's proper drainage.
Cultivation methods for Manilkara sublacera A.Chev.
Manilkara sublacera A.Chev. can be cultivated by using seeds or cuttings. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining medium. The cuttings should be taken from healthy trees and planted in a soil mix of sand and peat. The planting should be done during the rainy season when there is enough moisture to support the establishment of the plant.
Watering needs for Manilkara sublacera A.Chev.
Manilkara sublacera A.Chev. requires adequate watering for proper growth and development. The plant should be watered twice a week during the dry season and once a week during the wet season. It is important to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization of Manilkara sublacera A.Chev.
Manilkara sublacera A.Chev. requires regular fertilization for optimal growth. A balanced fertilizer with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be used. The fertilizer should be applied every three months during the growing season. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and avoid overfertilization, which can lead to nutrient burn and other problems.
Pruning of Manilkara sublacera A.Chev.
Manilkara sublacera A.Chev. requires minimal pruning as it naturally grows in a pyramid shape. However, pruning can be done to remove dead or damaged branches and to control the size and shape of the tree. Pruning should be done during the dry season to avoid the spread of diseases, and the tools used should be sterilized to avoid infecting the plant.
Propagation of Manilkara sublacera A.Chev.
Manilkara sublacera A.Chev., also known as mauve stinger, is a medium-sized evergreen tree native to the tropical regions of Africa. The tree produces small edible fruits and has an attractive foliage that makes it a popular ornamental plant.
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating M. sublacera is through seeds. The seeds of this plant are recalcitrant, meaning they cannot be stored for long periods, and should be sown as soon as possible after harvesting. Before sowing, the seeds need to be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat.
The seeds are sowed in containers filled with a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm and humid environment until germination. The temperature range required for germination is between 25 to 30°C. The seedlings are transplanted into individual containers as they grow, and they can be transferred to the field once they have attained a height of 20-30 cm.
Air-layering propagation
Air-layering is another propagation method for M. sublacera that involves creating a rooting medium on a stem without severing the connection to the mother plant. This method can be carried out on mature trees during the active growing season.
To air-layer, select a healthy stem, remove a small section of bark about 2-3 cm wide at the base of the stem, and pack the area with a rooting medium. A suitable rooting medium would be a mixture of moist sphagnum moss and perlite. The area is then wrapped with plastic to create a humid environment and kept in a shaded area. After six to eight weeks, roots will emerge through the rooting medium. The stem is then severed below the rooted area and planted in a container until the plant reaches a suitable size for transplanting to the field.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings propagation is also a potential method of propagating M. sublacera. The cuttings should be selected from healthy and disease-free mother plants, and they should be taken in the morning when the plant tissues are turgid, and the risk of wilting is minimal.
The cuttings about 15 to 20 cm in length should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a free-draining potting mix. A mixture of peat moss and perlite or a mixture of sand and compost can serve as a suitable potting mix. The cuttings should be kept warm and humid, with a temperature range of 25 to 30°C for optimal rooting.
Propagation of M. sublacera can be a bit challenging but can be achieved with good nursery practices and occasionally with the help of professionals. A combination of propagation methods can be used to improve success rates.
Disease and Pest Management for Manilkara sublacera A.Chev.
Manilkara sublacera A.Chev. is a tropical tree species that can grow up to 35 meters tall. It is a source of timber, fruits, and latex. Like any other plant species, Manilkara sublacera A.Chev. is susceptible to pests and diseases that can affect its productivity and health. In this section, we will discuss the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora sp. It affects the leaves of the plant, causing brown spots with yellow halos. Over time, the spots can merge and cause the leaves to fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy all infected leaves, provide proper ventilation and avoid overhead watering.
Anthracnose: This fungal disease affects the leaves, fruits, and twigs of the Manilkara sublacera A.Chev. plant. Symptoms of anthracnose include black or brown spots on the fruits or leaves. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected leaves or fruits, prune dead or infected twigs, and avoid overhead watering.
Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It is caused by Phytophthora sp. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing and wilting of leaves, stunted growth, and a general decline in plant vigor. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering, improve soil drainage, and use disease-free planting materials.
Common Pests
Termites: Termites are one of the most common pests that affect Manilkara sublacera A.Chev. They feed on the wood of the plant, causing structural damage and affecting its growth and productivity. To manage termites, use treated wood for construction, apply insecticides around the base of the tree, and remove any termite nests near the plant.
Borers: Borers are insects that feed on the bark and wood of the plant. They can cause structural damage and affect the plant's growth and productivity. To manage borers, prune and remove infested branches, apply insecticides around the base of the tree, and use pheromone traps to catch adult borers.
Fruit Flies: Fruit flies are common pests that can affect the fruits of the plant. They lay their eggs inside the fruit, which can cause premature ripening and rotting. To manage fruit flies, apply insecticides, use pheromone traps to catch adult flies, and remove and destroy infested fruits.
Overall, to maintain the health and productivity of Manilkara sublacera A.Chev., it is important to monitor the plant regularly for any signs of pests and diseases, and take action promptly to manage them.
