That's a great question.
We've made an easy to follow step by step guide. Follow the simple instructions below:
- Choose a sunny area for planting with a 2-3m radius of clear space surrounding.
- Dig a hole in the ground twice as deep and wide as the dimensions of the container or poly bag if possible.
- Partially fill the hole with a mix of soil and organic matter to bring the level up to the base of the root ball final position.
- Take the plant out of the container or poly bag by laying it on it’s side and slipping the container or bag off. It may be necessary to push and tap the bottom of the plastic container/bag.
- It is often a good idea to put some of the removed dirt from the container back into the hole.
- Place the root ball in the hole and top up with soil so the finished ground level is the same as it was in the container.
- Gently compact the soil.
- Leave a mound around the tree to form a basin, fill with water, washing the soil into any empty pockets around the root ball.
- Now is the time to fertilise. Be extra careful because plants are very susceptible to burning with excessive fertilising.
- Recommended fertiliser: NPK 7-15-19 (or similar) with manganese, iron and zinc. Scatter one level tablespoon per foot of plant height (do not apply fertiliser if the plant/tree is flowering or during colder spells below 15 degrees Celsius).
- You can spread mulch around the base of the plant, but leave the trunk area uncovered so the plant can breathe. Mulch to retain humidity.
How long does it take for a tree to bear fruit?
It varies, depending on the variety. You should plan on it taking at least a couple of years for grafted plants and 3-10 years for non-grafted from the time they are planted. Whilst we provide guidance based on the normal fruiting nature of the plants with the appropriate care and environment; we cannot guarantee that you will see exact identical results - as many things affect the success of a fruiting tree such as age, health condition, soil type, nutrients provided, the surrounding climate and temperature, and most importantly the level of care it receives in order to produce fruit.
We don't claim to be plant experts, rather we call ourselves ‘Plant Enthusiasts’. We will do our very best to help you grow the plants of your choice by giving you our honest opinion and advice. Please feel free to ask questions of us, and also undertake your own research, so that you’re confident and satisfied with what you are buying from us.
What are the typical fruiting times?
As a general guideline, here are typical fruiting times that you may find helpful. Please also be aware that this depends on the type of plant and the propagation method used to produce the plant.
Grafted Plants
Typically produce fruit in 1-3 years. They are a copy of a mature tree.
Air Layered Plants
Typically produce fruit in 1-3 years. They are a copy of a mature tree.
Plants Propagated from Cuttings
Typically produce fruit in 1-3 years. They are a copy of a mature tree.
Plants Propagated from Seedlings
Typically produce fruit in 3-8 years. There are many exceptions to this rule. For example: Calina Papaya: 4-9 months, Sugar Apple 2-4 years, Custard Apple 2-4 years, Soursops 1-3 years.