Overview of Sandoricum indicum Cav.
Sandoricum indicum Cav., commonly known as Santol or Wild Mangosteen, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia and India. It belongs to the Meliaceae family and is closely related to the mango and cashew. The tree can reach a height of up to 50 ft (15 meters) and produces oval-shaped fruits that are about 2-3 inches in diameter.
Description of Sandoricum indicum Cav.
The leaves of Sandoricum indicum Cav. are dark green and glossy, with a lanceolate shape that comes to a point at the end. The flowers are small, usually pale yellow or green, and grow in clusters. The fruit of the Santol tree is usually yellow or brown on the outside, with a fleshy pulp on the inside that is yellowish-white in color. The pulp is juicy, sweet, and slightly sour, with a flavor that is sometimes compared to peaches.
Uses of Sandoricum indicum Cav.
Sandoricum indicum Cav. has many uses in traditional medicine. The bark of the tree is used to treat diarrhea, fever, and respiratory problems, while the leaves are used to treat skin diseases and rheumatism. The fruit is also consumed as a traditional remedy for coughs and as a diuretic. Additionally, the Santol tree is valued for its wood, which is used in construction and furniture making.
Aside from its medicinal and economic uses, Sandoricum indicum Cav. is also used for culinary purposes. The fruit can be eaten fresh or used to make jams, jellies, and syrups. In Thailand, the Santol fruit is used to make a popular snack called "tong muan," which is made by drying the fruit pulp and mixing it with sugar.
General Appearance of Sandoricum indicum Cav.
The Santol tree has a straight trunk and a dense, spreading crown. It has a smooth, grayish-brown bark and large, sturdy branches. The leaves and fruits are clustered at the ends of the branches, giving the tree a full and lush appearance. The Santol fruit, with its yellowish-brown exterior and juicy white pulp, is distinct in appearance and easy to recognize.
Overall, Sandoricum indicum Cav. is a valuable tree that has multiple uses in medicine, cuisine, and industry. Its distinct appearance and delicious fruit makes it a great addition to any tropical landscape.Light Requirements
Sandoricum indicum Cav. is a tropical plant that prefers full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow and thrive. However, it can also tolerate some shade in the afternoon, especially in hot climates where excessive sun exposure can damage the leaves and fruits.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Sandoricum indicum Cav. is between 20°C to 35°C. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C and as high as 40°C, but prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold can affect its growth and fruiting. In areas with cold winters, it is best to protect the plant from frost and freeze damage by covering it with blankets or moving it indoors.
Soil Requirements
Sandoricum indicum Cav. grows best in well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. It can adapt to different soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are not waterlogged or overly acidic. The pH range should be between 5.5 to 7.5 for optimal growth and nutrient uptake. If the soil is too acidic, adding lime or dolomite can neutralize the acidity and improve the soil texture. It is also recommended to mulch around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Cultivation Methods
Sandoricum indicum Cav., also known as the santol fruit tree, thrives in tropical climates with consistent high temperatures. It is best grown in well-draining soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. When planting, ensure that the soil is loosened up to a depth of at least 1 meter and is free from rocks, weeds, and debris. The tree should be planted in a location that receives full sun for optimal growth.
Watering Needs
The santol fruit tree requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. However, it is essential not to overwater the tree as this can lead to root rot. During the dry season, water the tree every two to three days. It's advisable to water the tree with a soaker hose at the base, ensuring that water is being delivered straight to the roots.
Fertilization
Santol fruit trees require regular fertilizer applications to maintain proper growth and fruit development. Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer every three to four months. During the fruiting season, use a fertilizer with high levels of potassium and phosphorus to promote fruit growth and development.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the proper shape of the santol fruit tree and to improve fruit yield. Prune the tree regularly by removing dead and diseased branches, as well as any branches that are growing in the wrong direction. This should be done during the dormant season to prevent damage to the tree. The canopy of the tree should also be thinned out periodically to allow proper air circulation and sunlight penetration, improving overall tree health.
Propagation of Sandoricum Indicum Cav.
Sandoricum Indicum Cav., commonly known as the “santol” tree, is a tropical tree that belongs to the family Meliaceae. Propagation of this plant can be done using various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Seed Propagation
Seeds from the mature fruits of the plant can be collected and used for propagation. The seeds must be removed from the pulp before planting. Afterward, they must be planted in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Seed propagation is the most common method used for large-scale propagation of Sandoricum Indicum Cav.
Cutting Propagation
Cuttings can be obtained from mature branches of the plant. The cuttings must be at least 30 cm long and should be free from diseases and pests. Afterward, the cuttings must be planted in a well-draining potting mix, watered, and kept in a humid environment. Roots will eventually develop after 6 weeks, and the cutting can be transferred into individual pots.
Air Layering
Air layering is another method used for propagating Sandoricum Indicum Cav. This method involves making a wound on the stem to facilitate rooting. Afterward, a moist sphagnum moss should be wrapped around the wounded area and covered with a plastic film. After six weeks, roots will develop. The rooted stem can then be removed, potted, and cared for until it can be planted in its permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Sandoricum Indicum Cav.
Sandoricum indicum Cav., commonly known as the Burmese grape or Santol fruit, is a tropical tree that belongs to the Meliaceae family. The plant is widely cultivated for its delicious fruits, which have a sweet and sour taste. However, like any other plant, Sandoricum Indicum Cav. is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and how to manage them:
Pests
Fruit flies: These are small, flying insects that feed on the fruits of the Santol tree. They lay their eggs on the fruit, which then hatch into larvae that feed on the fruit's flesh. To manage fruit flies, use sticky traps to capture the adult flies. You may also use insecticides specifically formulated to kill fruit flies.
Scale insects: These are small, immobile insects that attach themselves to the plant and suck its sap. They usually appear as small, waxy bumps on the leaves and stems. To manage scale insects, prune the affected parts of the plant and treat it with insecticides that contain neem oil or soap solution.
Mealybugs: These are small, soft-bodied insects that appear as white, cottony masses on the plant. They feed on the plant sap and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage mealybugs, use insecticidal soap or neem oil on the affected parts of the plant. You may also use a high-pressure water spray to dislodge the insects.
Diseases
Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that appears as brown spots on the plant's leaves. It is usually caused by high humidity and poor air circulation. To manage leaf spot, prune the affected parts of the plant and treat it with a fungicide that contains copper.
Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that affects the plant's fruits. It appears as dark, sunken spots on the fruit's skin. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy the infected fruits. Treat the remaining ones with a fungicide that contains copper.
Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the plant's roots. It is usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To manage root rot, improve the plant's drainage and avoid overwatering. You may also treat the affected parts of the plant with a fungicide that contains copper.
In conclusion, managing pests and diseases in Sandoricum indicum Cav. requires regular monitoring and immediate action whenever signs of infestation or infection are observed. Proper cultural practices, such as maintaining good plant hygiene, providing adequate environmental conditions, and using resistant cultivars, are also essential in preventing pest and disease outbreaks.
