Conserving Breadfruit Diversity

Dan Rudoy, Collection Manager for the Breadfruit Institute, is a specialist in organic, holistic and regenerative farming practices. He is managing the institute’s incomparable conservation collection of 150 breadfruit varieties using regenerative agricultural practices. Regeneration in this context aims to restore soil fertility, health, and microbial diversity, which in turn improves tree health.

This is a “closed-loop” system, meaning that no external inputs are used, but rather are produced using “in-house” resources. Organic practices include applying compost tea and mulch, and avoiding pesticides and chemical treatments. Compost tea is an organic liquid fertilizer that provides essential biological and mineral amendments for healthy plant growth. Our tea is made using an ULTRA low-cost brewer system that runs off of a solar pump and recycled rainwater. Mulching with large fallen leaves and other organic materials also provides nutrients, protects roots, and helps keep the soil moist during dry periods.

Healthy soil from healthy parts of the orchard is micro-propagated and applied to weaker areas of the collection. These synergistic methods help improve the overall health and stability of the trees, and help prevent diseases.