Sentul (Sandoricum koetjape) is an evergreen tree that is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa and Australia. The plant is known for its aromatic fruits, which have a sweet and sour taste. Santol is also an ornamental plant that is used to create hedges, borders and other landscape compositions.
1. Choosing a landing site
Sentul is a light-loving plant that needs 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. The plant also tolerates partial shade well, but in this case fruiting will be less abundant. Sentul does not tolerate drafts and strong winds.
2. Soil
Sentul prefers fertile, well-drained soils with a neutral or slightly acidic 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
Sentul can be planted as seeds or seedlings.
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.
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. Caring for santol
Watering: Sentul needs regular watering, especially in hot weather. It is necessary to water the plant abundantly, without allowing the soil to dry out.
Feeding: Sentul 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: Sentul does not require pruning, but it can be done to shape the crown of the plant. Pruning is carried out in spring or autumn.
Diseases and Pests: Sentul 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
Sentul 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.
Sentul is used to create hedges, borders and other landscape compositions. The plant is also well suited for growing in containers.