Guava Tree
A Quick Guide to Growing a Guava Tree
One of the best producers of a superfruit, the guava tree is a very beneficial and nutritious addition to your landscape. As a tropical tree, it does require some consideration before planting, however.
Since it is a tropical plant, growing a guava tree cannot be done successfully just anywhere. In North America, the best location for this fruit tree is one that is frost free. In areas with mild winters, the guava is still able to be grown when placed near a wall or structure, where a temporary shelter of a plastic roof can be used when necessary. Growing the guava tree in a container is another way to enjoy it in cooler climates; simply moving it to a warmer location when warranted.
Sub-tropical and tropical areas such as Hawaii, extreme southern Texas and Florida, as well as areas in California have the most success with the guava tree. The fruit is able to ripen throughout the year in these locations.
The guava tree can be trained to grow in a variety of forms, depending on how the fruit will be harvested. When hand harvesting of the fruit is planned, training the guava tree to grow as a large and low hanging bush-like formation will provide the best access. Because of the delicate nature of the fruit, some prefer this method. For others, a mechanical means of harvesting has greater advantage, with trees growing in an upright fashion as a small tree is a better option.
A sunny location results in the healthiest specimens of the guava tree. Regular watering, reaching deep to the roots, is ideal; however, the tree adapts well to summers receiving little to no rain. Fruiting may be affected by dry conditions as blooming will be delayed through lack of water and could cause the fruit to drop prematurely.
Because the guava tree grows rather quickly and produces large amounts of fruit, regular fertilization is needed to maintain the tree’s energy. A monthly regimen of nitrogen, adding up to about ½ pound each year, could be called for to keep up with a mature tree. Its fast growth habit will require the tree to be pruned regularly, as well, in order to maintain the shape desired. Some guava tree growers like to use it as a hedge; pruning it back hard to form a thick, green wall. Fruit forms on new growth, so pruning it in this manner will not affect its formation.
To successfully grow a guava tree, warm and tropical temperatures are best, although they do well in containers as well if you wish to transport it indoors during cold snaps. Being able to harvest your own nutritious and delicious fruit may indeed be well worth the effort, however; a superfruit source in your own backyard.