Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard
Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard, also known as African Gutta-percha, is a tree species belonging to the genus Manilkara from the Sapotaceae family. The tree is native to various West African countries, including Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo.
Common Names
Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard has several common names, including African Gutta-percha, False Balata, and Butterstick.
Uses
The tree is widely used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including malaria, fever, and gastrointestinal issues. The latex extracted from the tree bark has antifungal and antibacterial properties, and it is used as a natural adhesive for bookbinding and carpentry. Additionally, the tree's wood is used for construction, making furniture and carving.
General Appearance
Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard is a large evergreen tree that can reach a height of about 40 meters tall and a trunk diameter of up to one meter. The tree bark is light grey and smooth on young stems but becomes rough and furrowed with age. The leaves are glossy green, leathery, and obovate-shaped, with a length of about 12 centimeters. The tree produces small yellowish-white flowers that develop into green fruits that mature into brownish-black berries.
Light Requirements
Manilkara sulcata var. sacleuxii requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and development. It can tolerate partial shade, but growth may be slower in shaded conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Manilkara sulcata var. sacleuxii is a tropical plant species that thrives in warm temperatures between 68-86°F (20-30°C). It is sensitive to cold temperatures and does not tolerate frost.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sand, loam, and clay, but requires good soil aeration. The addition of organic matter to the soil can improve its fertility and water-holding capacity, which can promote plant growth.
Cultivation
The plant Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard is a tropical tree that thrives in warm, humid environments. It is a versatile plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
When cultivating this plant, it is important to ensure that it is planted in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.5 and 7.0. The plant requires plenty of sunlight to grow and should be planted in an area that receives full to partial sunlight.
It is recommended to propagate this plant using vegetative methods like stem cuttings or layering. It is also important to make sure the plant is protected from strong winds and pests like mealybugs and scales.
Watering Needs
The Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard thrives in moist soil, but it does not tolerate wet feet, so it is important to water only when the soil is dry to the touch. Water sparingly during the dry season, and make sure the soil is well-draining to avoid waterlogging. Watering twice a week is generally sufficient for this plant.
Fertilization
Incorporating organic matter into the soil is important to provide nutrients. Regular fertilization is also required, especially during the growing season. Fertilizers high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can stimulate growth. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid excessive use of fertilizers to prevent nutrient and salt buildup in the soil, which can harm the plant.
Pruning
The Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard requires regular pruning to promote healthy growth and prevent the plant from becoming too bushy. Prune dead or diseased branches to prevent them from spreading to healthy parts of the plant. Remove any damaged or diseased branches or leaves as soon as possible. The best time to prune this plant is during the dry season when the plant is dormant. Make sure to use sterile pruning tools to avoid the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Manilkara sulcata Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard
The Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard can be propagated by several methods, including seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Manilkara sulcata Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard can be sown directly into the soil. It is recommended to plant the seeds immediately after removing them from the fruit since they have a very short shelf life. Soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours can enhance their germination rate. It takes about 3-4 weeks for the seeds to germinate, and the seedlings can be transplanted after 6-8 months.
Propagation by Cuttings
Manilkara sulcata Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard can be propagated by stem cuttings. Collect cuttings from healthy, disease-free plants during the early morning hours. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Water the cutting and cover it with a plastic bag to maintain high humidity. Place the pot in indirect light, and once the roots develop, transplant the cutting into a larger pot.
Propagation by Air Layering
Air layering is another propagation method suitable for Manilkara sulcata Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard. Take a sharp knife and make a small cut into the bark of the stem about halfway through. Apply rooting hormone to the area, wrap it with moist sphagnum moss, and cover it with plastic wrap. Secure the plastic wrap with twine to create a moist environment. After six months, the stem should have developed enough roots to sever it from the parent plant and transplant it into a new pot.
Disease and Pest Management for Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. Sacleuxii Dubard
Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard is a plant that is susceptible to several diseases and pests. Farmers or growers should be aware of these diseases and pests and manage them effectively to ensure the plants thrive.
Common Diseases that Affect Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. Sacleuxii Dubard
The following are some of the most common diseases that affect Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard plant:
1. Root Rot
Root rot is an infection caused by pathogens that damage the roots of the plant. This disease often occurs in waterlogged soils, and it affects the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients. The best way to control root rot is to provide good drainage systems that remove excess water from the soil and use fungicides in severe cases.
2. Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, fruits, and stems of the plant. It causes dark and sunken lesions on the plant, leading to defoliation and reduced yield. The best way to manage anthracnose is to prune and destroy the infected branches, and apply fungicides before and after flowering.
3. Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, circular spots on the plant's leaves. The spots increase in size and turn yellow, and the infected leaves eventually dry and fall off. The best way to prevent leaf spot is to plant the Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard plant in well-drained soils and practice good crop rotation. Fungicides can also be used to control severe cases of the disease.
Common Pests that Affect Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. Sacleuxii Dubard
The following are some of the most common pests that affect Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard var. sacleuxii Dubard plant:
1. Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, sap-sucking insects that feed on the plant's stems and leaves. They produce a white wax that covers their bodies, making them difficult to spot. Mealybugs secrete honeydew, which promotes the growth of sooty molds that affect the plant's photosynthesis. The best way to control mealybugs is to prune and dispose of infected plant parts, release natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings, and use insecticidal soaps or oils.
2. Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to the plant's stem and leaves. They suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and reduced yield. The best way to control scale insects is to prune and dispose of infected plant parts, release natural predators, and use insecticidal soaps or oils.
3. Fruit Flies
Fruit flies are pests that feed on the plant's mature fruits, causing spoilage and reduced yield. They lay their eggs on the fruits, and the larvae feed on the fruit's flesh. The best way to control fruit flies is to practice good sanitation by removing fallen fruits and keeping the area clean. Traps, insecticide baits, and natural predators can also be used to manage severe cases of fruit flies.
In conclusion, managing pests and diseases requires a combination of preventative measures and active management. Farmers can reduce the impact of pests and diseases by practicing good crop rotation, planting disease-resistant varieties, and providing optimal growing conditions for the plant.
