CULTIVATION, PEST MANAGEMENT AND SOLUTIONS OF JACKFRUIT PRODUCTION IN AGRICULTURAL ECOSYSTEMS IN VIETNAM

Abstract

The jackfruit tree (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) is a traditional fruit tree that has existed in Vietnam for a very long time. Currently, six varieties of jackfruit are recorded nationwide, including three imported varieties and three local ones. A total of 15 pest species and 10 disease types have been reported to affect these jackfruit varieties. Among them, the fruit borer (Glyphodes sp.) and the long-tailed mealybug (Pseudococcus sp.) are highly prevalent (++++). Regarding diseases, black rot (Lasiodiplodia theobromae Griffon & Maubl.), black core disease (Pantoea stewartii), stem rot and gummosis (Phytophthora sp.) and stem sunken dry branch disease (Rugonectria sp.) are also reported to cause significant harm, ranging from common to widespread. To manage pests and diseases, farmers use a variety of plant protection products (8 types). However, the number of treatments is not as effective as desired, with treatment frequencies ranging from 0 to 5 times per year. Pests and diseases continue to cause severe damage, impacting production. Most jackfruit planting areas are intercropped with other crops (accounting for 70.4 - 99.6%) across localities. Fertilizer use is generally in accordance with technical guidelines, with application concentrated during the rainy season, from May to October annually. The complex evolution of pests and diseases remains the biggest challenge for farmers. Additionally, the market price of jackfruit is lower than that of other high-value fruit crops like durian, mangosteen and mango, which also raises concerns among growers. Proposed solutions to enhance the value of jackfruit in Vietnam include: developing marketing channels, producing according to VietGAP and GlobalGAP standards, linking farmers into cooperatives and creating a stable consumption environment, thereby increasing the value of jackfruit, raising farmers' income and contributing to the development of Vietnam's agricultural industry in the context of international integration.