New Method of Growing and Propagating Hybrid Jackfruit and Mango Fruit Trees

In recent years, the development of hybrid fruit trees has opened a new chapter in tropical agriculture. Among the most exciting innovations is the combination of jackfruit and mango—two of the most beloved and widely cultivated tropical fruits. This hybrid concept not only improves yield and flavor but also makes the tree more resilient to environmental challenges. This article introduces a new, simple, and effective method of growing and propagating hybrid jackfruit and mango fruit trees.

Why Hybrid Jackfruit-Mango Trees?

Jackfruit is known for its massive, nutrient-rich fruit, while mango is cherished for its sweet flavor, aroma, and juice. A hybrid between the two can offer:

• Enhanced fruit flavor (aromatic and sweet)
• Longer fruiting seasons
• Greater resistance to pests and diseases
• Stronger root systems
• More efficient space utilization in small gardens

Though they are not naturally compatible for cross-pollination, grafting techniques and hormonal stimulation can help in creating a hybrid-like tree that can bear both types of fruit or express characteristics from both.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Parent Trees

Begin by selecting high-quality parent trees:

• Choose a dwarf or semi-dwarf mango tree variety such as ‘Nam Dok Mai’ or ‘Carabao’ for easier management.
• Select a compact jackfruit variety like ‘Black Gold’ or ‘Cheena’ which are known for their smaller tree size and faster fruiting.

Both trees should be disease-free and 1–2 years old for best results.

Step 2: Preparing the Rootstock and Scion

For the hybrid tree, the jackfruit seedling will serve as the rootstock because of its strong root system and adaptability to various soils. The mango stem will act as the scion (the part that will grow above ground).

Preparation steps:

1. Grow jackfruit seeds in rich, loamy soil. Let them grow until the stem is at least pencil-thick (usually 4–6 months).
2. Select mango scions that are about 4–6 inches long with at least 2–3 buds. Choose healthy stems that are semi-hardwood in texture.

Step 3: Grafting Method – Side Veneer Grafting with Natural Stimulators

Use the side veneer grafting method, which is one of the most successful techniques for combining jackfruit and mango.

Materials Needed:

• Sterilized knife or blade
• Grafting tape
• Aloe vera gel or banana peel paste (natural root and shoot stimulants)
• Clean cloth

Grafting Steps:

1. Make a slanting cut (about 2 inches long) on the side of the jackfruit rootstock, about 6 inches above the soil.
2. Prepare a similar slanting cut on the mango scion.
3. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel or banana peel paste at the cut surfaces. This encourages faster callus formation and bonding.
4. Join the two cut surfaces and wrap them tightly with grafting tape or plastic wrap.
5. Cover the grafted plant with a transparent plastic bag for 7–10 days to maintain humidity and promote healing.

Step 4: Aftercare and Recovery

After the grafting is done, the plant must be kept in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight and wind. Here are some care tips:

• Water regularly but avoid overwatering.
• Remove any sprouts from the rootstock below the graft union.
• After 3–4 weeks, if the scion remains green and starts to bud, the graft is successful.
• Once the graft has fully bonded (after 5–6 weeks), remove the plastic wrap gradually.

Step 5: Transplanting and Field Preparation

Once the hybrid jackfruit-mango tree is about 1–1.5 feet tall and has established good growth, it’s time to transplant it into the field.

Field Planting Tips:

• Dig a hole about 2 feet wide and 2 feet deep.
• Mix compost or aged manure with the soil before planting.
• Maintain 12–15 feet spacing between trees to allow proper canopy development.
• Water deeply once every 3–4 days.

Step 6: Maintenance and Fruit Development

To encourage early flowering and fruiting, feed the plant with a balanced organic fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium every two months. Use vermicompost, banana stem extract, and seaweed solution for natural growth stimulation.

Also, prune the tree regularly to balance the mango and jackfruit branches. If properly managed, the tree can start fruiting in 2–3 years.

Step 7: Pest and Disease Management

A hybrid tree like this may inherit better resistance, but you should still guard against:

• Mealybugs – use neem oil spray
• Fruit borers – install pheromone traps
• Root rot – ensure proper drainage and don’t overwater

Benefits of This New Method

1. Time-saving: Combining two trees into one saves space and reduces maintenance effort.
2. Cost-effective: One tree, double harvest.
3. Eco-friendly: Uses natural stimulants like banana peel and aloe vera.
4. Innovative: This method opens new doors in urban gardening and small-scale tropical farming.

Final Thoughts

This new method of growing and propagating hybrid jackfruit and mango trees is a revolutionary yet practical approach for gardeners, farmers, and fruit enthusiasts. While it’s not a true genetic hybrid, this grafted combination allows the cultivation of a tree that represents the strengths of both species. With minimal investment and care, you can enjoy the sweet flavor of mango and the bold taste of jackfruit from a single tree—truly a marvel of modern tropical horticulture.