How to Grow Carob – A Beginner’s Guide

carob plant growing in garden
Carob, which are known botanically as Ceratonia siliqua, are a type of tree that can easily be grown at home. Continue reading to learn the basics of growing carob as well as common mistakes to avoid along the way.

Best Time to Plant Carob

This will depend largely on your local climate, but as a rule of thumb, begin to plant the carob seeds outdoors in spring or early summer. This is the best time to ensure that the seedlings survive the weather.

To check when carob are most likely to thrive in your area, see the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If you live outside the US, do a quick search for ‘plant hardiness zone + [city]’.

How to Plant Carob the Right Way

There are a number of things to consider that will help you avoid some of the common mistakes of growing carob in your home garden.

Often overlooked, your soil can have a huge impact on how well your carob grow. Generally, your soil should be well-drained and fertile, with added organic matter. Soil PH levels should be around 6.0 to 8.5.

2-3′ apart for multiple plants. 20-30′ apart for multiple plants. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of about 24-36″. For each plant, be sure to sow at least a few seeds to ensure that at least one of them will germinate.

Begin thinning your carob seedlings n/a

How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Carob

The amount of sunlight is another key to a successful harvest. Too much sunlight will dry out your carob. Not enough sunlight will stunt your its growth or even kill it.

Ideally, your carob should be getting full sun

How Much to Water Carob

As you’ve figured by now, a lot can have an impact on how well your carob do, and the amount of water is no different.

Ideally, the soil should be damp to touch; not soggy or bone dry. If the leaves on your carob begin to change colors or start to look droopy, you need to adjust how much water you’re giving it.

Unfortunately, if you give it too much or too little water, you can kill it, so it’s best to just keep an eye on it and water as needed.

How Long Does it Take Carob to Germinate and Grow?

Now the fun part begins and you get to watch your carob grow.

It takes approximately n/a to germinate, and a total of n/a (harvest pods in the fall) from seed to harvest.

When to Harvest Carob

The best time to harvest your carob is when pods are fully mature, brown, and dry.

Carob can grow up to about 30-50′ tall.

What Can Carob Be Used For?

Food Use: great for use as a chocolate substitute in baking and sweets.

Flavor Profile: sweet, mild, and slightly nutty.

Can Carob Grow in Pots and Containers?

No, it is generally not advised to grow carob in pots or containers.

Are Carob Safe for Bees?

Yes, carob are safe for bees.

According to GreenPeace.org, bees pollinate human food crops that make up about 90% of the world’s nutrition.

Given their importance in our ecosystem and food supply, I feel it is important to note that growing carob is bee-friendly.

Add Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.