Whether you’re considering buying a pomegranate tree or you already have one growing in your garden, chances are that you’ve still got plenty to learn when it comes to this ancient fruit tree. While an established pomegranate tree is relatively low-maintenance, here are six common questions, along with their answers, that people have when first growing pomegranate trees, so that you can ensure that yours gets off to the very best start.
What Sort of Climate Do Pomegranate Trees Grow Best in?
Since pomegranate trees are originally from East Asia, they thrive in subtropical and semi-arid climates. Pomegranate trees adapt well to cool winters and hot summers, and also love full sun exposure, making them suitable for growing throughout Australia.
When Do Pomegranate Trees Start Producing Fruit?
If you’re lucky, your pomegranate tree will start to produce fruit one year after planting. However, this is rare – in most cases, it usually takes about two to three years for a pomegranate tree to fruit. However, keep in mind that pomegranate trees under the age of five may start to shed their unripe fruit – this is completely normal, and will likely stop once your tree matures a little more.
Do Pomegranate Trees Need to Be Regularly Pruned?
Unlike many other fruit trees, pomegranate trees really don’t require much pruning at all. A light annual pruning in early spring can be beneficial, but this only involves removing any dying wood and suckers. Too much pruning can reduce fruit production, so exercise plenty of control with those shears!
How Large Do Pomegranate Trees Grow?
Pomegranate trees vary quite greatly in size. Dwarf versions that only grow a few feet tall are available, while others can grow to around 30 feet. However, pomegranate trees also do very well in pots, meaning that this is a tree that you’ll be able to grow no matter the size of your garden.
How Long Do Pomegranate Trees Live For?
When grown in the right conditions, pomegranate trees can live for more than 200 years – there are several specimens in the Mediterranean that are at least this age. While fruit production dramatically declines after the tree reaches 15 years of age, the beautiful ornamental features that pomegranate trees boast continue to get more impressive over the years.
How Long Does it Take for Pomegranates to Ripen on the Tree?
Since pomegranates will not ripen further after they have been picked, it’s important to only pick the fruits once they are perfectly-ripe. This usually takes about six to seven months after the pomegranate tree has flowered. You will notice that the colour of the fruit deepens to a deep red, and it will also swell and increase in weight. When you tap a ripe pomegranate, it will sound quite metallic and hollow, and you will probably also notice the wildlife in your garden feasting on the ripe fruits when they are ready. You may need to net or mesh your pomegranate tree at this stage in order to ensure that the local wildlife leaves enough for you!
Pomegranate trees are such a rewarding fruit tree to grow – not only do they look exquisite in any garden, but the taste of fresh pomegranates can’t be beaten. Once you have the basics covered when it comes to growing pomegranate trees, you’ll be reaping its benefits for many years to come!
I have been given a pomegranate. I would like to plant it in a large pot but not sure if it’s a dwarf variety – is there any way to tell – or can I plant any into a pot and trim accordingly?