The amazing Jackfruit Tree (Artocarpus heterophyllus) was originally discovered in India and Malaysia. The Jackfruit Tree is related to both the fig and mulberry tree, but Jackfruit is much different than these more common realatives. Jackfruit Trees produce very large, green to yellow, spiked fruit which can weigh as much as 120 pounds each. The most interesting feature of this tropical fruit tree is that it grows its large fruit on stems that emerge from the bracts of large branches, as well as upon the tree’s main trunk itself.
Jackfruit Trees have large, dark green leaves and a somewhat spreading habit which creates shade and habitat for nesting birds. Jackfruit Trees are suited for growing in-ground within USDA Zones 9 to 11, and in pots in Zones 4 to 11. The large fruit’s edible pulp is described as a mix of pineapple, banana, and mango. Jackfruit Trees do best in partial shade to full sun and start to reliably make fruit after 3 to 5 years in the ground. Add a tropical Jackfruit Tree to your edible garden and amaze everyone who sees and tastes this exotic fruit.
In tropical jungles Jackfruit Trees can grow up to 80 feet tall. Although they may not reach such lofty heights, Jackfruit Trees can grow fine in the US in areas such as the tropical south, the gulf coast, or the southern locations of the west coast. While Jackfruit Trees have deep taproots and do best in the ground, they can also be grown in large pots in colder spots, and brought inside for winter. They like rich but well-drained soil that has plenty of organic matter. Jackfruit Trees will not survive freezing temperatures or long periods of soggy soil.
Plant Jackfruit Trees in locations that receive five or more hours of direct sunlight every day. The best spots have a combination of an open southern exposure and protection from north winds. Clear a six-foot diameter planting area by removing all grass and weeds in early spring. Add compost, manure, and clean sand to the ground and turn it into the soil well. Prepare a hole that is twice the size of the potted tree’s root ball, and plant the tree so the root ball surface is even with the ground level. Backfill with compost and sand and water in thoroughly. For the first six months water when soil is dry down to two inches deep. After this period, reduce watering to once a week, or less in times of heavy rainfall.
Jackfruit Harvesting and Uses
Jackfruits are large and one fruit can weigh between twenty and fifty pounds, with the largest reaching over 100 pounds. Blooms appear on short stems along the tree trunk or on the larger limbs. The Jackfruits ripen slowly until they are mature and ready to harvest between one and three months after blooming. Harvest Jackfruits when the green, spiked rinds turn yellow and start to develop a few tan spots. Some varieties of Jackfruit will be green until maturity, when the green husks will show yellow spots. Unripe Jackfruit will have persistent sticky latex inside and the pulp will be astringent. Perfectly ripe Jackfruit will have a succulent interior made up of pulp pods surrounding glossy black seeds. The ripe pulp is crisp, slightly dry, and has the flavor of mixed tropical fruits such as banana, pineapple, and mango.
Most healthy Jackfruit Trees will start to make fruit in three to four years. To process a harvested Jackfruit, place it on a stable surface and a substantial cutting board. Use a large chef’s knife to carefully split the giant pod, much like you would a melon. Remove the edible interior pulp segments and discard or plant the seeds. Jackfruit is consumed raw, used as an ingredient in stews, and added to blended drinks. Jackfruit is also used in vegetarian dishes where it has become a popular meat substitute.
Advice
Prune Jackfruit Trees at the end of a fruiting cycle once all fruit has been picked. Cut out the dead and split branches and remove the branch tops to reduce the tree’s height to twenty feet. This will help the tree put on strong new growth in the spring. The best time to prune Jackfruit Trees is in late winter before new leaves start to grow. Always remove the fallen or trimmed limbs to prevent fungus and pests from harming the Jackfruit Tree root or trunk.
Mulch Jackfruit Trees around the tree base with a three to four inch layer of tree bark, raked leaves, or wood chips. Avoid stacking deep mulch against the Jackfruit Tree trunk and add new mulch any time. Fertilize Jackfruit Trees every three months from early spring until the start of fall using fruit tree fertilizer applied in the amounts suggested by the manufacturer. Always water fertilizer in well and do not over-fertilize since doing so may decrease blooms and fruit.
FAQs
Can I grow a Jackfruit Tree in a container?
Jackfruit Trees can be grown in large pots, but they have deep taproots which makes them better for in-ground locations.
Is Jackfruit good for you?
Yes, Jackfruit is quite nutritious. Jackfruit is fat-free, and contains protein, calcium, fiber, iron, and potassium.
How much Jackfruit will one tree produce?
A full-sized Jackfruit Tree that is three or four years old will grow 50 to 200 Jackfruits per year, depending on location and tree vigor.
Do Jackfruit Trees need a pollinator?
No, Jackfruit Trees do not need a pollinator to grow fruit. However, multiple Jackfruit Trees growing together will produce heavier yields.
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