What To Know
- The taste is a delightful blend of pineapple, guava, and strawberry, making it a versatile fruit for eating fresh, adding to smoothies, or using in jams and jellies.
- Position the tree in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
- Growing feijoa is a rewarding experience, offering delicious fruit, beautiful foliage, and a touch of the tropics in your own backyard.
Want to add a touch of the tropics to your garden and enjoy the unique flavor of feijoa? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to grow feijoa, from choosing the right location to harvesting your own delicious fruit.
The Feijoa: A Tropical Treat with a Twist
Feijoa (pronounced “fay-ho-ah”), also known as the pineapple guava, is a subtropical evergreen shrub that produces a unique and flavorful fruit. Native to South America, feijoa trees can thrive in a variety of climates, making them a popular choice for home gardeners.
Feijoa Fruit: A Taste of the Tropics
Feijoa fruit is a true delight for the senses. Its skin is a vibrant green and its flesh boasts a creamy, pale green color. The taste is a delightful blend of pineapple, guava, and strawberry, making it a versatile fruit for eating fresh, adding to smoothies, or using in jams and jellies.
Choosing the Right Location for Your Feijoa Tree
The first step in growing feijoa is selecting the perfect location for your tree. Here’s what to consider:
- Sunlight: Feijoa trees need at least six hours of sunlight per day, but they prefer partial shade, especially in hot climates.
- Soil: They thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. If your soil is too acidic, you can amend it with lime.
- Climate: Feijoa trees are hardy in USDA zones 8-10. They can tolerate some frost, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can damage the tree.
Planting Your Feijoa Tree: A Simple Process
Once you’ve chosen the right spot, planting your feijoa tree is straightforward:
1. Dig a hole: The hole should be twice the width and depth of the root ball.
2. Amend the soil: Mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility.
3. Place the tree: Position the tree in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
4. Backfill the hole: Fill the hole with the amended soil, gently firming it around the roots.
5. Water thoroughly: Give the tree a good watering to settle the roots.
Caring for Your Feijoa Tree: Nurturing Growth
With the right care, your feijoa tree will flourish and produce bountiful fruit. Here’s a breakdown of essential care practices:
- Watering: Water your feijoa tree regularly, especially during dry periods. Aim for deep watering, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilizing: Feed your feijoa tree with a balanced fertilizer in the spring. You can also use compost or manure as a natural fertilizer.
- Pruning: Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape of your tree and encouraging fruit production. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
- Pest and Disease Control: Feijoa trees are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to scale insects and fungal diseases. Monitor your tree regularly for signs of infestation or disease and take appropriate action if necessary.
Harvesting Feijoa Fruit: A Sweet Reward
Feijoa fruit typically ripens in the fall. You’ll know it’s ready to harvest when the skin turns a deep green and the fruit gives slightly to gentle pressure. Here’s how to pick your feijoa fruit:
- Gently twist: Twist the fruit off the branch, being careful not to damage the stem.
- Handle with care: Feijoa fruit is delicate, so handle it with care.
- Enjoy immediately: Feijoa fruit is best eaten fresh, but you can also store it in the refrigerator for a few days.
Beyond the Fruit: Enjoying the Beauty of Feijoa
Feijoa trees are not just about their delicious fruit; they also offer beautiful foliage and a unique appearance.
- Foliage: Feijoa trees have glossy, dark green leaves that add a touch of tropical flair to your garden.
- Flowers: In the spring, feijoa trees produce beautiful, fragrant flowers that are a delight to see. The flowers are a combination of red, white, and purple, making them a stunning addition to your landscape.
Feijoa: A Delightful Addition to Your Garden
Growing feijoa is a rewarding experience, offering delicious fruit, beautiful foliage, and a touch of the tropics in your own backyard. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy the unique flavor and beauty of this exotic fruit for years to come.
Information You Need to Know
Q: How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
A: Feijoa trees typically start producing fruit within 3-5 years after planting, although some varieties may take longer.
Q: Can I grow feijoa from seed?
A: Yes, you can grow feijoa from seed, but it can be a lengthy process. It’s generally recommended to purchase a grafted tree for faster fruit production.
Q: What are some common feijoa varieties?
A: Popular feijoa varieties include ‘Coolidge,’ ‘Triumph,’ ‘Pineapple,’ and ‘Chico.’
Q: How long does feijoa fruit last?
A: Fresh feijoa fruit can last for a few days in the refrigerator. You can also freeze feijoa fruit for later use.
Q: What are some ways to use feijoa fruit?
A: Feijoa fruit can be eaten fresh, added to smoothies, used in jams and jellies, or baked into pies and cakes.
