Everything About Growing Karanja Tree

Standing tall and proud in the tropical and temperate regions, the Karanja tree is a symbol of strength and resilience.

This magnanimous tree is a beauty in all aspects. All parts of the tree have medicinal purposes. For example the flowers can be used to treat skin disorders while the roots, leaves and bark are very useful for treating the ailments like constipation. It also improves gut motility, and cures leprosy. Continue reading to learn the process of Growing Karanja Tree.

Learn more about How to Grow the Karanja Tree here

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Information about the Karnaja Tree

The Karanja tree is a tropical tree species that is valued for its various uses and ecological benefits. It can grow up to 15-25 meters tall and has a spreading canopy with dense foliage, and its seeds contain oil that can be used in a wide range of applications.

The tree’s bark, leaves, and roots also have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine. Additionally, the Karanja tree is a nitrogen-fixing tree, making it an important component of agroforestry.

It is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia but has been introduced to many other parts of the world, including Africa, where it has become naturalized.

Botanical Name: Millettia pinnata

Common Names:  Pongamia pinnata, Indian beech Pongame Oiltree 

 Here are some common names for the Karanja tree in different Indian languages:

Hindi: करंज (Karanj)
Tamil: புங்கு (Pungu)
Telugu: కారంజ (Karanja)
Kannada: ಹಂಗುಣ (Hanguṇa)
Malayalam: പുഞ്ഞ (Punna)
Bengali: করঞ্জ (Karanja)
Marathi: करंज (Karanj)
Gujarati: કરંજ (Karanj)
Punjabi: ਕਰੰਜ (Karanj)
Odia: କରଞ୍ଜ (Karanja)

Have a look at the many trees that could glorify your terrace garden here

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Propagation of the Karanja Tree

The propagation of the Karanja tree can be done through seeds or vegetative propagation methods like cuttings, grafting, or budding. The following are the steps for propagating the Karanja tree through seeds which is the easiest and most proficient way of do so:

1. Collect ripe Karanja tree pods from the tree when they turn brown and dry.
2. Extract the seeds from the pods and remove any debris or damaged seeds.
3. Soak the seeds in water for 24-48 hours to soften the seed coat and improve germination rates.
4. Plant the seeds in well-draining soil or seedling trays, about 2-3 cm deep, and cover with a thin layer of soil.
5. Water the soil lightly and keep it moist but not waterlogged.
6. Place the seedlings in a warm and bright location, protected from direct sunlight and strong winds.
7. Germination of Karanja tree seeds usually takes 2-3 weeks.
8. Once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves, transplant them into larger containers or directly into the ground.
9. Water the seedlings regularly and provide them with adequate sunlight, nutrition, and protection from pests and diseases.

Here are some exotic trees that can be grown and propagated in India in the same manner

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Requirements of Growing Karanja Tree

Sunlight

The Karanja tree is well adapted to full to partial sunlight to grow and thrive. It can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from direct sunlight to partial shade. However, it grows best in areas that receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Inadequate sunlight can lead to stunted growth and reduced foliage production. On the other hand, excessive sunlight can cause leaf scorching.

Soil

The Karanja tree can grow in a wide range of soil types but prefers well-draining, fertile soils. It prefers soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH level of 6.0-7.5. It can tolerate sandy or clayey soils, as well as soils with low to medium levels of fertility.

Watering

The Karanja tree needs regular watering to establish and maintain healthy growth. It prefers well-draining soils that are moist but not waterlogged.

Young trees require more frequent watering, especially during dry periods or in hot weather, to prevent wilting or stress. Once established, the Karanja tree can tolerate some drought.

Learn more about when and how to water garden plants here

Temperature

The Karanja tree is a tropical species that requires warm temperatures to grow and thrive. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 5°C to 45°C, but grows best in areas with an average temperature range of 20-30°C.

The tree can tolerate brief periods of frost, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can damage or kill the plant.

Humidity

The Karanja tree can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels, from arid to humid environments. However, it grows best in areas with moderate to high humidity levels, around 60-70% relative humidity.

Low humidity levels can lead to water stress and reduced growth, while high humidity levels can increase the risk of fungal diseases and other problems.

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Care for Karanja Tree

Fertilizer

The Karanja tree benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and foliage production. It requires a balanced fertilizer that contains a mix of nitrogen, phosphorus.

It can also thrive in the NPK ratio of 4-2-3 as this promotes more foliage.  Young trees require more frequent fertilization, while mature trees may only need annual applications.

Pruning

Pruning is an important aspect of Karanja tree cultivation, as it helps to maintain tree shape, promote healthy growth, and improve yield. It should be done annually or biannually, depending on the age of the tree and growth rate.

It is best to prune during the dormant season to avoid interfering with flowering and fruit production. The primary goal of pruning is to remove dead, diseased, or damaged wood, as well as any branches that cross or rub against each other.

Pests and Diseases

One of the most common pests is the pod borer, which can damage fruit and reduce yield. Other pests include aphids, whiteflies, and scale insects, which can be controlled through regular monitoring and appropriate use of pesticides or insecticides.

The Karanja tree is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew, which can cause leaf drop and reduce overall growth.

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Toxicity

The Karanja tree is known to contain several compounds that can be toxic to humans and animals if ingested in large quantities. The seeds, in particular, contain a high concentration of karanjin, a toxic compound that can cause digestive upset, neurological symptoms, and skin irritation in humans and animals.

It’s important to exercise caution and seek professional advice when using Karanja products for medicinal or other purposes.