Breadfruit / Kadachakka (Root Cutting) Plant

Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) is a tropical evergreen fruit tree belonging to the Moraceae family, the same family as Jackfruit and Mulberry. Native to the South Pacific, Breadfruit has spread throughout tropical regions of the world and is highly valued for its nutritious fruits, rapid growth, and excellent productivity.

The tree typically grows 12–15 meters tall and develops a broad, dense canopy. Its large, deeply lobed green leaves add ornamental beauty to home gardens and orchards. The fruits are round, oval, or oblong, measuring 10–30 cm in length and weighing between 0.25–6 kg, depending on the variety. The skin may be smooth, rough, or slightly spiny.

Breadfruit is naturally rich in carbohydrates and dietary fiber, making it an excellent source of energy. As the fruit ripens, its starch gradually converts into natural sugars. The fruits can be roasted, baked, fried, steamed, or boiled, and when cooked, the flesh develops a delicious texture and flavor similar to freshly baked bread or potatoes.

Plant Care & Maintenance

• Protect young plants from strong winds, pests, and excessive weed growth.

• Apply well-decomposed organic manure regularly to improve soil fertility.

• A balanced NPK fertilizer may be applied based on the plant's age to encourage healthy growth and higher fruit production.

• Breadfruit performs best in deep, fertile, well-drained soils with regular moisture.

Watering & Weed Management

Water young plants regularly until they are well established. Mature trees require deep watering during extended dry periods to maintain healthy growth. Applying organic mulch around the base helps conserve soil moisture, while keeping the area around the tree weed-free promotes stronger root development and improved fruit yield.

Pruning

Annual pruning helps maintain a manageable tree height, encourages vigorous new growth, and makes harvesting easier. Early pruning promotes a bushier canopy with better branching. It is recommended to prune and fertilize after the main harvest to support healthy future fruit production.

Pest & Disease Management

Breadfruit is generally a hardy tropical tree. Proper cultural practices such as timely watering, balanced fertilization, pruning, weed control, and orchard sanitation help minimize most pest and disease problems while ensuring vigorous growth and consistent fruit production.

Harvesting Breadfruit

Breadfruit is usually ready for harvest 60–90 days after flowering. In tropical regions, harvesting commonly takes place during February–March and June–August, depending on local climate conditions. A healthy mature tree can produce 500–2,000 fruits per year, with individual fruits typically weighing 1–4 kg.

Why Choose Breadfruit?

• Highly nutritious tropical fruit rich in carbohydrates and fiber.

• Fast-growing evergreen tree with excellent annual yields.

• Large ornamental foliage suitable for home gardens and orchards.

• Delicious fruits can be roasted, baked, fried, steamed, or boiled.

• Well adapted to warm, humid tropical climates like Kerala.

• Ideal for sustainable home food production and tropical fruit collections.