Overview
Suregada occidentalis (Hoyle) Croizat, also known as the milkberry tree, is a species of flowering plant in the family Euphorbiaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia, specifically in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Description
The milkberry tree is a small, deciduous tree that can grow up to 8 meters tall. It has a smooth, greyish-brown bark and its leaves are simple, alternate, and oval-shaped with pointed tips. The leaves can grow up to 12 cm long and 6 cm wide. The flowers are small and greenish-white in color, growing in terminal clusters. The fruit of the milkberry tree is a 3-valved capsule that contains 3 to 4 seeds, which are reddish-brown in color when ripe.
Common Names
In the Philippines, the milkberry tree is known as "Boggo," "Lumbang lalake," or "Lumbang babae." In Malaysia, it is called "Kemunting susu." Other common names for the milkberry tree include "Milkwood" and "Lati."
Uses
The milkberry tree has various uses in traditional medicine. Its bark, leaves, and seeds are used to treat various ailments, such as diarrhea, dysentery, and fever. The seeds are also known to be an effective cure for snakebite. In addition, the milkberry tree is a source of timber, as its wood is hard and durable, and is used for construction, furniture-making, and tool handles.
Growth Conditions of Suregada occidentalis (Hoyle) Croizat
Suregada occidentalis (Hoyle) Croizat, commonly known as white milkwood or laru-laru, is a small to medium-sized tree that is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Australia, Asia, and Pacific Islands.
Light requirements
The white milkwood tree grows best in a bright, sunny location that receives direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. However, it can also tolerate light shade and partial sun.
Temperature requirements
The white milkwood tree is a tropical plant that thrives in warm, humid climates. It prefers temperatures between 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F). It cannot tolerate frost and requires protection from cold winds.
Soil requirements
The white milkwood tree grows well in a range of soils, from sandy loams to heavy clays. However, well-drained soils are necessary for its growth. It cannot tolerate waterlogged soils. The ideal pH range for the white milkwood tree is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.
The tree can also grow in saline soils and is salt-tolerant. It can grow in areas near the coast, but it requires protection from strong wind and salt spray.
Other growth conditions
The white milkwood tree requires regular watering, especially during its early growth stages. However, it is drought-resistant and can survive long periods of drought once it is established. It is also wind-resistant and can withstand strong winds.
The tree is not very demanding in terms of fertilization. However, it benefits from periodic fertilization with balanced fertilizer during its growing season to promote healthy foliage growth and fruiting.
Cultivation Methods
The Suregada occidentalis is a tropical plant species that thrives well in warm and humid environments. It prefers well-drained soil with sufficient organic material content as it does not tolerate waterlogged areas. The plant requires partial shade to full sunlight for optimal growth and can withstand short periods of drought.
Watering Needs
The Suregada occidentalis plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist during the growing season. However, care should be taken not to waterlog the plant. It is advisable to water the plant in the early morning or late evening to allow adequate moisture absorption into the soil before evaporation occurs during the daytime.
Fertilization
The plant requires adequate nutrition for optimal growth, and therefore fertilizers should be applied regularly. Nitrogen-based fertilizers are the best for Suregada occidentalis and should be applied during the growing seasons. Fertilizers should be applied around the base of the plant to ensure adequate absorption and avoid contact with the leaves that may cause undesirable results.
Pruning
Pruning Suregada occidentalis is necessary to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the plant during the dormant phase to avoid interfering with its growth cycle. Dead and diseased parts of the plant and any unwanted branches should be removed during pruning. Regular pruning helps in removing pests and insects that might have inhabited the plant, thus avoiding disease occurrence.
Propagation of Suregada occidentalis (Hoyle) Croizat
Suregada occidentalis (Hoyle) Croizat is a tree that belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae. It can be propagated by various methods, which include:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Suregada occidentalis can be collected from the tree when they become mature. The seeds should be cleaned and treated with fungicide to avoid fungal infections. Seed germination occurs within 1-3 weeks, and the seedlings should be transplanted to individual pots after they have grown three leaves.
Cuttings
Another way of propagating Suregada occidentalis is through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with no leaves, and cut it at an angle of 45 degrees. Remove any leaves at the bottom of the cutting and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-drained soil mixture and keep it moist until the roots are established. Transplant the cutting to a larger pot or to the field when it has grown enough leaves.
Air-layering
For Suregada occidentalis, air-layering is a convenient method of propagation. Select a healthy stem and make a small incision on the bark, a few centimeters above the ground level. Apply rooting hormone on the incision and wrap it with moist moss. Cover the moss with plastic and secure it with a string or tape. Roots should emerge in about 3 weeks, and the newly formed plant should be separated from the mother plant and planted in a new pot or in the field.
In conclusion, Suregada occidentalis can be propagated using seed, cutting, and air-layering methods. Seed propagation is the most common method. However, the choice of propagation method depends on the availability of propagules, time, and resources.
Disease and Pest Management for Suregada occidentalis (Hoyle) Croizat
Like any other plant, Suregada occidentalis (Hoyle) Croizat is susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Here's a brief overview of the common issues and how to manage them:
Common Diseases
Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes circular spots on the leaves, often with a dark brown border. The best way to manage this is to prune off any affected leaves and dispose of them. Additionally, spraying with a copper-based fungicide can often help prevent further spread of the disease.
Root rot: This is a common problem in plants that are over-watered or have poor drainage. The symptoms include wilting, yellowing leaves and stunted growth. To manage root rot, it's important to ensure that the plant is not over-watered and the soil has adequate drainage. Additionally, adding a fungicide to the soil can help restore the health of the plant.
Common Pests
Aphids: These soft-bodied insects are a common pest for Suregada occidentalis (Hoyle) Croizat. They can cause distortion and yellowing of the leaves, as well as transmit diseases. The best way to manage aphids is to wash them off with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars: The larvae of moths and butterflies, caterpillars can cause defoliation and generally weaken the plant. The best way to manage caterpillars is to remove them by hand or apply a biological insecticide that targets caterpillars.
Mealybugs: These soft-bodied insects resemble white cotton and can be found in the crevices of the plant. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. The best way to manage mealybugs is to scrape them off with a toothbrush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Additionally, spraying with insecticidal soap can be effective.
By being vigilant and addressing any signs of disease or pests promptly, Suregada occidentalis (Hoyle) Croizat can remain healthy and thrive.
