Inoculation & Resin Formation

Supply Chain | Cultivation | Inoculation | Harvesting | Manufacturing | Distribution

Inoculation is the critical process of inducing resin formation in resinous tree species—particularly Agarwood (Aquilaria spp.)—by simulating a stress response that triggers the production of oleoresin, the valuable substance harvested for perfumery and medicinal use.

1. Tree Maturity & Selection

  • Age Requirement: Ideal for trees aged 6–8 years or when DBH (Diameter at Breast Height) reaches 15–20 cm.
  • Health Status: Select healthy, pest-free trees with strong root systems.
  • Pre-inoculation Assessment: Document tree location, DBH, and general condition for tracking resin development.

2. Inoculation Methods

  • Biological Method
    • Pathogen Used: Fusarium oxysporum (naturally occurring endophyte).
    • Formulation: Use BarIno FusaTrinity™ – a dual-action inoculant combining F. oxysporum with Manganese Dioxide (MnO₂) as an oxidative catalyst.
    • Application:
      • Drill holes (1–1.5 cm diameter, 5–7 cm deep) at 20–30 cm vertical intervals around the trunk.
      • Inject 2–5 mL of fungal suspension or paste per hole.
      • Seal holes with sterile cotton or paraffin wax.
  • Chemical Method
    • Reagents: Sodium chloride, ethanol, or sulfuric acid derivatives.
    • Risks: Can harm tree health and reduce long-term productivity.
  • Physical Method
    • Techniques: Nailing, bark wounding, burning, or partial girdling.
    • Function: Stimulate resin flow as a response to mechanical stress.

3. Post-Inoculation Management

  • Monitoring Frequency: Every 3–6 months to evaluate:
    • Signs of infection (color change, odor, resin exudation).
    • Resin spread via coring or bark inspection.
  • Environmental Support:
    • Maintain optimal soil moisture and tree nutrition.
    • Avoid overwatering to prevent rot.
  • Re-inoculation: After 12–18 months, only if resin development is poor and the tree remains healthy.

4. Resin Formation Timeline

  • Initial Reaction: Begins 2–4 weeks post-inoculation.
  • Resin Accumulation: Substantial build-up within 12–24 months.
  • Maturity for Harvest: Generally ready for initial harvest by 18–30 months post-inoculation.

5. Documentation & Traceability

  • Maintain inoculation records:
    • Tree ID, date of inoculation, type of inoculant used, dose, and method.
  • Track resin yield and quality per tree.
  • Photos and resin test results (color, density, GC-MS data if available) for quality grading.

6. Risk Management

  • Over-inoculation: May kill the tree or limit future harvests.
  • Contamination: Use sterile tools and inoculants to avoid pathogen spread.
  • Wildfire or Insect Risk: Monitor induced trees more closely due to stress vulnerability.
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