Pomegranates are one of nature’s most magnificent fruits, and there’s something special about growing them in your garden. Not only are they rich in flavor, but they’re also packed with antioxidants and other health benefits. However, growing pomegranates can be a challenge if you don’t know the right steps to take. In this blog, I’ll be sharing some valuable tips on how to grow the perfect pomegranate fruit, including soil type, water, light, and fertilizer.
Zone Type for Pomegranate Trees
When it comes to the right zone for growing pomegranates, they thrive in USDA zones 7-10. These zones provide the optimal subtropical to tropical climate that pomegranates need to grow. In cooler regions, pomegranates can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the colder months. It’s important to note that the plant may not bear as much fruit in cooler climates, but it will still provide a lush, green addition to your garden or home. Choosing the right zone for your pomegranate tree is crucial for its growth and fruit production.
How to Grow Pomegranate
Moving on to the actual planting process, it’s important to first prepare the soil. Pomegranates prefer well-drained soil with a pH around 5.5 to 7.2. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball, and make sure it’s deep enough to cover the roots completely.
Place the pomegranate tree in the hole, ensuring that the crown is level with or slightly above the ground. Back-fill the hole with the original soil, lightly compressing it around the base of the tree. To give your pomegranate a good start, add a slow-release, balanced fertilizer to the newly planted tree according to the package instructions.
Water the tree thoroughly after planting, and continue to water regularly for the next few weeks, allowing the top inch of the soil to dry out between waterings. A newly planted pomegranate tree needs consistent moisture to establish its root system.
Remember to choose a sunny spot for your pomegranate, as this fruit tree needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Adequate sunlight not only boosts growth but also contributes to the production of those juicy, ruby-red arils.
How to Grow Pomegranate in Pots
Growing pomegranates in pots is a viable option, especially for those living in cooler climates or those with limited space. Start by selecting a deep pot with ample drainage holes to prevent water logging. Terra-cotta pots are a great choice due to their excellent moisture-wicking properties.
Fill the pot with a well-draining soil mix, ideally a blend of garden soil, compost, and a bit of sand. Plant the pomegranate seedling in the pot, following the same planting depth guidelines as for ground planting. Position the pot in a sunny location where the plant will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Water the plant regularly, but allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings to avoid overwatering. Potted plants generally require more frequent watering than their counterparts in the ground, so keep a close eye on the soil’s moisture levels.
Slow-release, balanced fertilizers are still the way to go for potted pomegranates. However, they may require feeding slightly more often due to the restricted root growth and the quicker exhaustion of nutrients in a pot.
Finally, if you are in a cooler region, remember to bring the pot indoors during the colder months. The tree should be placed in a sunny window to maximize light exposure. With these guidelines, you can successfully grow and enjoy pomegranates even in a pot!
How Fast do Pomegranate Trees Grow
Pomegranate trees are relatively slow growers, but their rate of growth can depend on the care they receive and the conditions in which they are grown. Under ideal conditions, a pomegranate tree can grow between 1-2 feet per year. On average, they reach their full height of 12 to 20 feet after about 5 to 7 years. Remember, the growth rate of pomegranates is largely influenced by factors such as soil quality, sunlight, water, and the use of appropriate fertilizers. It’s also worth noting that while the tree itself may grow fairly quickly, it can take several years for it to start producing fruit. Most trees don’t start bearing fruits until they are about 2 to 3 years old.
How to Grow Pomegranate from Seeds
Growing pomegranates from seeds is a rewarding endeavor, although it requires patience. To get started, collect seeds from a ripe pomegranate. Rinse the seeds under cold water to remove the pulp, then pat them dry with a tissue. Place the seeds on a paper towel, and leave them in a cool, dry place for a few days to dry out completely.
Once the seeds are dry, they’re ready to be planted. Fill a pot with a seed-starting mix, and sow the seeds about ¼ inch deep. Be sure to choose a pot with adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Water the soil thoroughly, and cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse. This will help to retain moisture and warmth, creating an ideal environment for germination.
Place the pot in a warm, sunny location, ensuring it gets plenty of light. The seeds should germinate within a couple of weeks. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. You can remove the plastic bag once the seedlings have emerged.
When the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted to larger pots or directly into the ground, depending on your climate and the time of year. Remember to keep them well-watered, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Growing pomegranate from seeds can be a lengthy process, but it is undoubtedly satisfying to watch your seeds transform into a thriving tree that eventually produces its own delicious fruit.
Pruning your Pomegranate Tree
Lastly, pruning your pomegranate trees is essential to prevent overcrowding, promote airflow, and reduce pest infestations. You can prune pomegranates during their dormant season or after harvesting the fruit. It is recommended to remove all weak, dead, and diseased wood and shorten the new shoots to ten inches or less to promote fruit production.
How and When to Harvest
Harvesting pomegranates at the right time is crucial to enjoy their full flavor and nutritional benefits. Pomegranates are typically ready to harvest about 6 to 7 months after flowering, usually in the fall when their skin has turned from a glossy to a more matte finish and they have developed a rich, red color.
The fruit should feel heavy in your hand, indicating that the arils inside are juicy. Another good sign of ripeness is when the fruit makes a metallic sound when tapped lightly. The skin should also be somewhat hard, but not too tough to be penetrated by your fingernail.
To harvest, use a pair of sharp, clean pruning shears to cut the fruit off the tree, leaving 2-3 inches of the stem attached to avoid damaging the fruit. Avoid pulling or twisting the fruit off the tree, which can harm both the tree and the pomegranate.
Remember to handle harvested pomegranates gently to avoid bruising them, and store them in a cool, dry place. They can last for several weeks if stored properly. Now, you’re ready to enjoy the sweet and tangy taste of your homegrown pomegranates!
Different Types of Pomegranates
There are numerous varieties of pomegranates, each with its unique features and characteristics:
- Wonderful: This is perhaps the most common variety of pomegranate. It’s known for its vibrant ruby-red color and robust flavor. The fruit is large-sized and contains sweet, juicy arils.
- Parfianka: Celebrated for its extraordinary taste, the Parfianka pomegranate boasts sweet, dark red fruit with a high juice content. Its soft seeds make it a favorite among many.
- Granada: This is a variant of the Wonderful pomegranate, with similar size and taste but a deeper red color in the arils and the exterior of the fruit.
- Angel Red: This variety is distinguished by its very soft seeds and high juice content, making it ideal for juicing. It produces large, bright red fruit.
- Nana: This is a dwarf variety that is often grown for ornamental purposes due to its beautiful flowers. The fruit is small and has a somewhat tart flavor.
- White: This unique variety, as its name suggests, has pale, almost white arils. The taste is much sweeter and less acidic than traditional pomegranate varieties.
Remember, the right variety to grow depends on your personal preferences and climate conditions.
Happy Gardening!
In conclusion, growing pomegranate fruits is not as complicated as it seems. Always remember to plant your pomegranate trees in well-draining sandy loam soil, provide at least eight hours of full sunlight, ensure proper irrigation, supplement the proper levels of fertilizer, and prune your trees regularly. By following these tips, you can enjoy healthy, beautiful, and tasty pomegranates right in your backyard. Start growing yours today!
Please be sure to check out my Gardening Blog Post Page for more tips on all types of gardening. Including Seed Saving, Seed Starting, Orchids, Water Gardening, Coldframe Gardening, Indoor Bulb Gardening, Hydroponics, Container Gardening, Mums, Herbs, African Violets, planting Bulbs, Flower Gardening, Vegetable and Fruit Gardening, Indoor Houseplants of all kinds, Cactus, Succulents, Hanging plants, Deer resistant plants and even Bird, Bee, Butterfly and Hummingbird Gardens!