Overview
Terminalia schweinfurthii Engl. & Diels, also known as African almond or African cherry, is a tree species that can be found in the African continent. It is a common sight in the savannas and the tropics, particularly in the areas of Cameroon, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zambia.
Appearance
The African almond tree can grow up to 30 meters in height, although its trunk is relatively small, reaching only around 50 centimeters in diameter. The tree has a rounded crown, with branches that are thick and widely spreading. The leaves are simple, alternate, and are about 10-25 cm long. The flowers, which bloom between November and January, are small and greenish-white and the fruit is a drupe, with a hard shell and a diameter of approximately 3-5 centimeters.
Uses
The African almond tree has a wide range of uses. The fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. The nut is also crushed to make a type of oil that has various applications. The bark of the tree is used in local traditional medicine, particularly for its astringent and antiseptic properties. In addition, the wood is strong and durable and is used for construction and as firewood. Furthermore, this species is known for its shade and ornamental properties, making it a popular choice for landscaping in parks and gardens.
Light Requirements
Terminalia schweinfurthii Engl. & Diels is a species of plant that thrives in moderate to bright light conditions. It can tolerate partial shade but requires plenty of sunlight to grow and develop properly. As such, it is recommended that this plant is grown in areas where it can receive direct sunlight for at least six hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
Terminalia schweinfurthii Engl. & Diels requires warm temperatures to thrive. It grows best in temperatures that range between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. Temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius can cause damage to the plant, and prolonged exposure to temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius can cause it to wilt. As such, this plant is best grown in tropical and subtropical regions where the temperature is warm and consistent throughout the year.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Terminalia schweinfurthii Engl. & Diels are not very strict, but the plant prefers well-draining soils that are rich in nutrients. A pH level of 5.5 to 7.5 is ideal for this plant. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as excessive soil moisture can cause root rot and other fungal infections. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its texture and nutrient content, leading to healthier plant growth.
Cultivation methods
Terminalia schweinfurthii Engl. & Diels is typically propagated from seeds, but cuttings and root suckers can also be used. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight. It grows well in both sandy and loamy soils and can withstand dry conditions.
Watering needs
Terminalia schweinfurthii requires moderate watering, especially during the dry period. Water the plant deeply and less frequently rather than shallowly and frequently. This encourages the roots to develop deeper, making it more tolerant to drought.
Fertilization
During the growing season, apply a balanced fertilizer to the soil. This should be done at least every two months. The fertilizer should contain a higher percentage of nitrogen to enhance growth and promote greener leaves. However, care should be taken not to over-fertilize the plant.
Pruning
Terminalia schweinfurthii does not require regular pruning, but can be pruned to remove diseased or damaged branches. Prune the plant in early spring, cutting just above the node or where another branch emerges. Care should be taken not to remove more than a third of the plant as this can lead to stunted growth.
Propagation of Terminalia schweinfurthii Engl. & Diels
Propagation of Terminalia schweinfurthii can be done through various methods. Given below are the different techniques used for propagating the plant:
Seed propagation
Seeds are the most commonly used method for propagating Terminalia schweinfurthii. Collect mature seeds from the parent plant and sow them in well-draining soil. Stratification of seeds can also be done before sowing in order to break seed dormancy and facilitate germination. Cover the seeds loosely with soil and water them regularly. The seeds usually germinate in 2-4 weeks.
Cutting propagation
Terminalia schweinfurthii can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings of at least 6 inches long from mature branches, making sure to include a few leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and insert it into well-draining soil. Water the cutting regularly and place it in a location with bright and indirect sunlight. The cuttings can usually root in 4-6 weeks.
Grafting propagation
Grafting is another method for propagating Terminalia schweinfurthii. This method involves combining the rootstock of a closely related species and the scion of Terminalia schweinfurthii. The rootstock provides the base while the Terminalia scion provides the desired characteristics. This technique is commonly used in commercial plantations to produce disease-resistant or high-yield varieties.
Propagation of Terminalia schweinfurthii through seeds, cuttings or grafting can produce healthy and strong plants. The choice of propagation method depends on the availability of plant material, the desired traits and the resources available.
Disease and Pest Management for Terminalia Schweinfurthii
Terminalia schweinfurthii, commonly known as African Terminalia, is a tree species native to Africa, known for its medicinal properties and food value. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its productivity and health. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can harm Terminalia Schweinfurthii and how to manage them.
Diseases
Bacterial blight: This disease is caused by Xanthomonas campestris bacteria, which causes small, water-soaked lesions on the leaves and stems of the plant. The infected tissue turns brown and dies, leading to defoliation and stunted growth of the tree. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected plant parts immediately and apply copper-based fungicides before disease onset.
Anthracnose: This disease is caused by the Colletotrichum gloeosporioides fungus, which leads to the development of black, sunken spots on the plant's leaves, stems, and fruits. It causes defoliation and fruit drop, thus reducing plant productivity. You can manage anthracnose by practicing good sanitation, pruning, and disposing of diseased plant parts and applying fungicides.
Root rot: This disease is caused by various fungi species that attack the roots of the plant, causing them to decay. The leaves start to yellow and the branches wilt, leading to death of the plant. To manage root rot, avoid planting Terminalia Schweinfurthii in wet or poorly drained soil, and ensure that you do not over-water the plant. Additionally, you can use fungicides to control the disease or remove and destroy the infected plant parts.
Pests
Spider mites: These are small arachnids that suck sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and curl up. Heavy infestations can cause defoliation, reduced plant growth, and fruit drop. To manage spider mites, use a forceful water spray to knock them off the plant or use insecticides such as neem oil to kill them.
Yellow peach moth: This is a pest that feeds on the fruits of the tree, causing it to rot and drop. To manage yellow peach moth, use pheromone traps to monitor the pest's population, and use insecticides to control the infestation.
Scale insects: These are pests that suck sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and become stunted. To manage scale insects, use a forceful water spray to knock them off the plant or use horticultural oils such as neem oil to smother them and prevent future infestations.
In conclusion, preventing diseases and pests is the best way to manage them, and the best way to prevent infestations is by practicing good sanitation and proper care of the plant. Early detection and treatment of diseases and pests are also crucial in managing them effectively.
