Tamarind characteristic and cultivation

Today at Gardenprue we are adding a new crop file, in this case a large tree. It is known as  Tamarindus indica,  perfect for regions with a warm climate. Its origin is from Africa but is currently established everywhere. Take a look at the way we cultivate it and if it convinces you … let’s get to work!

TAMARIND CHARACTERISTICS

The tamarind is a tree whose size can reach 20 meters , although it is generally slow growing. Above all, the particularity of this tree is the shape of its fruits , where the seeds are housed inside. They are a kind of brown, covered and oversized bags that have various culinary uses. For example, they are usually sold as sweet or for the manufacture of juices and drinks, and some medicinal properties have even been found

THE IDEAL CLIMATE FOR TAMARIND

Tamarind achieves its best development and growth in areas with hot climates , with dry and mild winters. Young and slightly woody plants are usually quite susceptible to cold, so if we expect a cold winter we will have to protect them.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS. WHICH IS THE BEST?

When growing tamarind, you have to take into account some details regarding the quality and structure of the soil. For example, the  Tamarindus indica thrives in deep soils , with good drainage , a loamy texture and a pH around neutral, between 6.5 and 7.5. Even so, and having mentioned the best soil where it grows, you have to know that tamarind is not demanding in terms of soil and adapts well to most of them.

IRRIGATION AND FERTILIZER NEEDS

It is necessary risks with a frequency that prevents the soil dry out . Especially in summer, when temperatures rise, it is necessary to repeat watering. Tamarind has no problem growing in humid environments.

As for the fertilizer , there are 2 very important mineral components in tamarind, nitrogen and phosphorus. It responds very well to the incorporation of decomposed organic matter around the tree, so you can perform this procedure after the winter season or just before flowering / fruiting. If you notice that your tree has mineral deficiency problems, and the application of organic matter has not been enough, you should make an application of fertilizers (nitrogen and phosphorus) of 50 grams each, the first 4 years of growth and development.

MULTIPLICATION. HOW DO WE GET NEW VARIETIES?

We can obtain new tamarind plants from seeds or by grafting. The way to prepare an ideal seedbed for the germination of this tree is to use a sandy substrate with good moisture content. The seed takes about 8-10 days to germinate. Once the seedling is around 5 cm, by pricking it , we transplant it into pots, waiting for it to grow and harden a little more.

Tamarind seeds

You can also get different types of tamarind seeds ( tamarindus indica ).

 IS IT NECESSARY TO PRUNE?

The concept of pruning in tamarind is based solely on the architecture of the tree. That is, in achieving a balance and homogenizing the growth of its branches. This is limited to the elimination of dry and crossed branches , and to aerate the interior of the vegetal mantle to avoid the spread of diseases and improve fruit production.

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