Published Feb 09, 2023
Also known by the names Katahal, Phanas, Palaa, Chakka, etc. The fruit boosts the immune system, helps in healthy digestion, and helps keep healthy eyes and skin.
The wild fruit finds the most suitable climate in the arid, warm and humid plains of south India. Frost and cold weather damage the tree and fruit growth.
A well-drained sandy loam soil with a pH value of 6.0 to 7.5 suits the wild fruit. Generally, the fruit is rainfed. However, the fruit needs regular irrigation for the first 2-3 years of plantation.
The major varieties of jackfruit include Ceylon Jack, Konkan Prolific, Hybrid Jack, Palur-1, Burliar-1 and PPI-1.
For proper weed control, periodic weeding and mulching must be done for a healthy jackfruit plantation.
In around 7 years of plantation, jackfruit is ready for harvesting. However, for some varieties, such as one from Singapore fruits in the 3rd year itself, with each fruit weighing between 10-30 Kg.