RESEARCH ON THE PROPAGATION OF Aartocarpus chama Buchanan-Hamilton

Abstract

Artocarpus chama Buchanan-Hamilton belongs to the Moraceae family and is a multi-purpose native tree with high economic value and fast growth. Artocarpus chama wood is heavy, hard, durable, has good mechanical properties, is less susceptible to termites, and is used to make high-end furniture and household appliances. Artocarpus chama is a large tree, under natural conditions the tree can be 15 - 30 m in height, 40 - 50 cm in diameter at breast height (there are even trees with a diameter of more than 1 m), the trunk is cylindrical and straight, height below large branches. Artocarpus chama Buchanan-Hamilton is a plant species with potential to develop large timber forests and businesses. However, researches on the propagation of this plant are very limited. Therefore, research into breeding this tree species is very meaningful in providing seed sources to serve and develop large timber plantations and businesses in Vietnam. Artocarpus chama seeds soaked in potassium permanganate (KMnO₄) solution at 0.05% concentration for 2 hours gave the highest germination rate (92.7%). During the nursery stage, when 50% of the light was covered, the seedlings had the highest survival rate (77.8%) and best growth (height reached 52.3 cm, diameter reached 0.62 cm). With the potting formula (98% topsoil + 1% phosphate and 1% potassium), the seedlings grow well with an average height of 52.1 cm and an average diameter of 0.61 cm.