Welcome to the tropical world of guava growing! Botanically known as Psidium guajava, guavas are an enchanting fruit to grow in your own garden. This guide will walk you through the essentials of guava cultivation, along with some pitfalls you’ll want to avoid on your gardening journey.
Quick Reference Guide for Growing Guavas
| Planting Time | Soil PH | Sunlight | Water | Harvest Time | Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring or early summer | 5.0 to 7.0 | Full sun | Damp to touch | When fruit gives slightly to pressure and has a strong, sweet aroma | 10-15′ tall |
Best Time to Plant Guavas
Your local climate has a significant role to play in determining the best time to plant guavas. Generally, spring or early summer is the ideal time for planting, as it increases the chances of your seedlings weathering the climate well. You can refer to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to know the most suitable time to plant guavas in your region. For those residing outside the US, a quick ‘plant hardiness zone + [city]’ search will fetch you similar information.
How to Plant Guavas the Right Way
Planting guavas requires attention to several details. One often overlooked factor that greatly influences guava growth is the soil. Your soil needs to be well-drained and fertile, with a pH level between 5.0 to 7.0. Check out this Soil PH guide to know more.
Although guavas are typically not grown from seeds, if you opt to, sow the seeds 24-36″ deep and always plant a few extras to ensure germination.
How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Guavas
Sunlight is crucial to the successful growth and fruiting of your guava trees. Both extremes, too much or too little sunlight, can hamper their growth. The ideal condition? Full sun.
How Much to Water Guavas
Watering, like sunlight, is a key factor in growing guavas successfully. The soil around your guava plants should be damp to touch, not soggy or bone dry. Keep an eye out for any color change or droopiness in the leaves – it’s a sign you need to adjust your watering.
How Long Does it Take Guavas to Germinate and Grow?
The growth period for guavas is a test of your patience, but it’s also the most rewarding phase. While guavas usually aren’t grown from seeds, if you choose to do so, expect the first signs of growth within a couple of weeks. Generally, it takes around 2-4 years for a guava tree to start bearing fruit.
When to Harvest Guavas
The perfect moment to harvest your guavas is when the fruit yields slightly to pressure and emits a sweet, aromatic scent. Guava trees can reach an impressive height of 10-15′ tall, making each harvest quite the event!
What Can Guavas Be Used For?
Food Use: Bursting with a tropical, sweet, and slightly acidic flavor, guavas are a versatile addition to your kitchen. Enjoy them fresh, incorporate them into refreshing juices, or turn them into delightful jellies.
Can Guavas Grow in Pots and Containers?
Yes, indeed! Guavas can be grown in 24-36″ containers. This method helps manage weed growth, restricts the plant’s size, and offers the flexibility to move your guavas around to optimize sunlight exposure or to protect them from adverse weather conditions.
Are Guavas Safe for Bees?
Yes, guavas are bee-friendly plants. According to GreenPeace.org, bees are crucial pollinators for crops that make up around 90% of the world’s nutrition. By growing guavas, you’re playing a part in supporting our ecosystem and maintaining our food supply.
