Jackfruit extension manual.pdf - Crops for the Future

5.4 Field management
See Technical Note 6 in Part II.
5.4.1 Weeding
• The ground around young trees must be kept weed free during the first 3–4 years.
This can be done manually if there are only a few trees.
• Mulching, if possible, should be practised.
5.4.2 Water requirements
Jackfruit does not normally require irrigation. However, it is sensitive to drought at certain
growth stages.
• It is not necessary to install piped irrigation. Hand watering is adequate for
household plantings.
• Growers should be aware of wilting or stunted or slow growth and supply extra
water at these times.
• Newly planted trees are susceptible to drying before the root system develops,
particularly during the first 3 years after planting.
• For mature trees watering may be necessary during dry periods from blooming
through to fruit development, to prevent flower or fruit drop.
• Make a circular ring of soil about half a metre away from the trunk to concentrate
water around the root system and prevent run-off. In small-scale orchards or
plantations drip irrigation may be useful.
5.4.3 Fertilising
• Apply farmyard manure (FYM) regularly to jackfruit trees.
• Manure and fertilizers may be applied to enhance growth and productivity.
• The first instalment is applied at the beginning of the rainy season, and the second
instalment applied soon after the rainy season is over.
• Look for signs of nutrient deficiencies, which may be seen as yellowing or colour
changes of leaves, or stunted growth.
• If possible send leaf samples to an extension officer for mineral testing.
For example doses of manure and fertilizers are presented from Bangladesh in Table 5.
Other areas may need adjustment.
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