EFFECTS OF TIMING OF SEED COLLECTION AND METHOD OF ESTABLISHMENT ONBROSIMUM ALICASTRUM, S.W., REPRODUCTION

Abstract

Brosimum alicastrum, Sw., a member of the Moraceae family, is a tree species found throughout Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean including Jamaica. It has many uses, including fodder, human food, medicine, wood products, and fuel. The species is now rare in the more heavily populated regions of Jamaica, and there is often conflict between the two primary users, farmers and charcoal burners. Knowledge of its seed biology and reproduction exists, but sitespecific information is lacking. On-farm experimentation in western Jamaica reported in this paper indicates that seedling production is feasible, timing of seed collection and planting is crucial, and container grown seedlings are recommended over bareroot stock.