Sandalwood (Santalum album) is an evergreen tree that is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. The plant is known for its valuable essential oils, which are used in perfumery, medicine and other industries.
1. Choosing a landing site
Sandalwood is a light-loving plant that needs 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. The plant also tolerates partial shade well. Sandalwood does not tolerate drafts and strong winds.
2. Soil
Sandalwood prefers fertile, well-drained soils with a neutral or slightly alkaline reaction. Before planting, it is necessary to dig the soil to a depth of 20-30 cm and add organic fertilizers (humus, compost, peat).
3. Landing
Sandalwood can be planted by seeds, cuttings or layering.
Sowing seeds: Seeds are sown in open ground in spring, when the soil temperature reaches +10 °C. The seeding depth is 2-3 cm. The seeding rate is 20-30 seeds per 1 m².
Cuttings: Cuttings are cut at the beginning of summer and planted in a greenhouse or greenhouse. Rooting occurs within 2-3 weeks.
Planting seedlings: Seedlings are planted in open ground in spring or autumn. Seedlings are planted at a distance of 2-3 m from each other.
4. Sandalwood care
Watering: Sandalwood needs regular watering, especially in hot weather. It is necessary to water the plant abundantly, without allowing the soil to dry out.
Feeding: Sandalwood needs regular feeding. It is necessary to feed the plant 2-3 times a month during the growing season. Mineral or organic fertilizers are used for fertilizing.
Pruning: Sandalwood does not need pruning. However, it can be carried out to form the crown of a tree. Pruning is carried out in spring or autumn.
Diseases and pests: Sandalwood is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. However, in some cases, the plant may be attacked by the following pests:
- Spider mite: the pest feeds on the sap of leaves, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Insecticides are used to control the pest.
- Aphids: the pest feeds on the sap of leaves, causing the leaves to become deformed and fall off. Insecticides are used to control the pest.
5. Reproduction
Sandalwood is propagated by seeds, cuttings or layering.
Seed propagation: Seed propagation is carried out in the spring.
Cuttings: Cuttings are carried out throughout the growing season.
Layering: Layering can be done in spring or autumn.
Sandalwood is used for landscaping parks, gardens and other areas. The plant is also well suited for growing in containers.