Overview
Trochomeria polymorpha (Welw.) Cogn. is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the family Annonaceae. It is native to the forests of tropical Africa, particularly in Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, and Nigeria. The plant is known for its ornamental and medicinal properties and is widely used by the locals for various applications.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as African custard apple, Annona d'Afrique (French), African cherimoya, and African pot apple. It is also referred to by various local names, including essok, ogi-iwu, nkpa, and gwana.
Appearance
Trochomeria polymorpha grows up to a height of 3-8 meters. The tree can either be erect or spreading, with a dense, rounded crown. It has an irregular shape and is characterized by a short, rough trunk, and stiff, crooked branches. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptic, measuring 5-18 cm long and 3-6 cm wide. The flowers are yellowish-green and borne on axillary and terminal panicles, while the fruits are rounded and green, measuring 5-10 cm in diameter.
Uses
The fruit of Trochomeria polymorpha is edible, and its pulp is used to make custard apple juice, which is a popular beverage in Africa. The plant's bark, roots, and leaves are also used to treat various ailments such as fever, malaria, and diarrhea. The bark is also used to make a dye, while the roots are used to treat toothache and respiratory problems. In addition, the wood is used to make household utensils, tool handles, and for fuel purposes. The plant is also grown ornamentally, and its foliage is used for landscaping purposes.
Light Conditions
Trochomeria polymorpha typically grows in partially shaded to fully shaded areas. Direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant, making it important to provide it with adequate shade. It is best to grow the plant under the canopy of other trees or in areas where it can receive diffused light.
Temperature
The plant is native to tropical regions and prefers warm temperatures, typically ranging from 18°C to 32°C. It is important to avoid extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, as they can cause damage to the plant. Frost and freezing temperatures can also be harmful to the plant, and care should be taken to protect it during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
Trochomeria polymorpha prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. However, it is important to ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged or overly dry, as these conditions can be harmful to the plant.
Cultivation
The Trochomeria polymorpha plant thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Ideally, the soil should have a pH of 6.0 - 7.0. Planting should be done in the spring. The plant requires full sun exposure for optimal growth, but it can also tolerate partial shade. The plant can grow up to 6 meters in height and 3 meters in width, so it is important to leave enough space for the plant to grow.
Watering
The Trochomeria polymorpha plant requires regular watering during the growing season. Watering should be done once or twice a week, depending on the weather and the soil's moisture content. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. When watering, it is best to use a watering can or a hose to ensure that the water penetrates deep into the soil.
Fertilization
Trochomeria polymorpha requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer should be applied in the early spring and mid-summer. Alternatively, you can use an organic fertilizer such as compost or well-rotted manure. Fertilizer should be applied around the base of the plant and watered in thoroughly.
Pruning
The Trochomeria polymorpha plant requires minimal pruning. However, it is recommended to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches as soon as they are noticed. This will help to maintain the overall health of the plant. It is also important to remove any suckers that may develop around the base of the plant, as these can take away nutrients from the main plant. Regular pruning will help to maintain the shape and size of the plant and promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Trochomeria Polymorpha
Trochomeria polymorpha, also known as the African breadfruit, is a tree that is commonly found in Africa. This tree is considered to be very important as its fruit and seeds are a source of food for many people. Trochomeria polymorpha can be propagated through various methods that include:
Seed Propagation
Propagating Trochomeria polymorpha through seeds is the most common method. The seeds are mostly obtained from matured fruits, which are then laid out to dry. Once the fruits are dry, the seeds are extracted and cleaned by removing the fleshy part. The cleaned seeds can be sown immediately or stored for later use. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 to 48 hours to aid germination. The seeds are then sown in well-drained soil, and covered with a thin layer of soil. Germination usually takes between 1 to 3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted after a few months in a bigger container.
Cuttings Propagation
Another method of propagating Trochomeria polymorpha is through cuttings. The cuttings are usually taken from matured plants, and they should be at least 10 cm long. The cuttings should be taken during the rainy season, and they should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings are then planted in a well-drained potting mix and watered regularly. It takes about 4 to 6 weeks for the cuttings to root and start sprouting new shoots.
Air-layering Propagation
Air-layering is another method that can be used to propagate Trochomeria polymorpha. This method involves making a cut through a branch, wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss, and covering it with plastic. The branch is left for a few months until it develops roots, after which it can be cut and planted in a potting mix. Air-layering is a slow process but it has a higher success rate.
Introduction
Trochomeria polymorpha (Welw.) Cogn. is a tree species native to Sub-Saharan Africa, where it thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant species is highly valued for its medicinal properties and ornamental value. To ensure high yields and healthy growth of the tree species, adequate disease and pest management strategies must be employed.
Common Pests
The most common pests that attack Trochomeria polymorpha include mealybugs, scale insects, aphids, and spider mites. These pests feed on the sap of young leaves, thereby causing deformities, stunted growth, and eventual death of the tree. To manage pests, it is advisable to use insecticides such as neem oil or pyrethrin-based products. These products should be applied early in the morning or late in the evening when pests are most active.
Common Diseases
The main diseases that affect Trochomeria polymorpha include leaf spot diseases, stem cankers, and root rot. Leaf spot diseases are caused by fungi that thrive in warm and moist environments. The fungi cause spots on leaves, leading to defoliation and reduced growth. To manage leaf spot diseases, it is imperative to remove infected leaves during pruning and maintain proper hygiene in the garden.
Stem cankers are caused by bacteria that infect the bark of the tree, leading to the formation of cankers or dead patches. This condition can cause the tree to wilt and eventually die. To manage stem cankers, it is advisable to prune infected branches and apply copper-based fungicides. It is also crucial to maintain proper hygiene in the garden and avoid wounding the bark of the tree during pruning or other activities.
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the tree, leading to reduced growth, yellowing of leaves, and eventual death. To manage root rot, it is crucial to maintain proper drainage in the garden and avoid overwatering. It is also recommended to use fungicides such as copper-based products to prevent the spread of the disease.
Conclusion
Disease and pest management are critical to ensuring healthy growth and high yields of Trochomeria polymorpha. Employing proper hygiene practices, applying the appropriate insecticides and fungicides, and maintaining proper drainage can go a long way in preventing the spread of diseases and pests. Finally, it is wise to regularly monitor the plant for any signs of infection and take swift action to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
