QA

Question: How To Care For A Pomegranate Tree

Pomegranates need full sun. Keep an eye on the weather report and if temps threaten to drop below 40 degrees F. (4 C.), move the plant indoors to a sunny window. Water the tree deeply about once a week, possibly more often during peak summer months.

How long does it take for a pomegranate tree to bear fruit?

The blooming period is relatively long for pomegranates (April–June), but later-blooming flowers may not have time to develop into fully ripe fruit. Fruit ripening takes around six to seven months for most pomegranates, so flowers blooming in April and May should be ready between Halloween and Thanksgiving.

What is the best fertilizer for pomegranate tree?

A pomegranate tree needs adequate nitrogen for best growth, because nitrogen supports growth of foliage and production of flowers that eventually set fruit. You can use ammonium sulfate, a high-nitrogen fertilizer, or a balanced 10-10-10 formula, starting in spring after the tree begins to show new growth.

How do I get my pomegranate tree to produce fruit?

To set fruit, the drought-tolerant pomegranate requires additional irrigation and fertilizer. They appreciate a soil pH of 5.5-7 and as is common with most plants, will benefit from a layer of organic mulch. To achieve higher production levels of pomegranate fruiting, plant in full sun.

Do pomegranate trees need to be pruned?

After the third year, you will only need to prune your pomegranates lightly each year to encourage fruit production. Pruning your pomegranate heavily will reduce fruit production but you will want to prune heavily after a year with little growth in order to re-invigorate your pomegranate.

Do pomegranate trees need a lot of sun?

Pomegranate trees need lots of sunshine every day to thrive, so make sure your tree’s container is in full sun. If necessary (though it isn’t ideal), they can tolerate partial shade.

Do you need two pomegranate trees to produce fruit?

Most pomegranates are self-fruitful, meaning they do not require another tree to cross-pollinate with, as the bees do all the work. That said, planting another pomegranate nearby can increase fruit production on both plants. A little cross-pollination doesn’t hurt, but it isn’t necessary.

Are coffee grounds good for pomegranate trees?

You can use either homemade compost or store-bought fertilizer for pomegranate trees. Depending on your soil quality and environment, you may see better success with one over the other or with a mix of the two. If you choose to make your own, add plenty of scraps from leafy greens and any coffee grounds you have.

How often should you water pomegranate trees?

For best growth and production, pomegranates should receive at least one inch of water a week. During dry spells, water is mandatory. If not properly watered during dry spells, fruit may drop prematurely. Pomegranates tend to be bushy and sucker from the root.

Why is my pomegranate not producing fruit?

The pomegranate is both self-pollinated and cross-pollinated by insects. There is very little wind dispersal of pollen so most of the pollination is done by bees. So, if you have a pomegranate tree that is not producing fruit, the most likely explanation is a lack of pollinators.

Where do pomegranate trees grow best?

Pomegranates grow best in areas with cool, mild winters and hot, arid summers, thriving in USDA growing zones 8 to 10. That means warm, inland areas of California, Arizona, and similar climates in the US will produce the most fruit.

Why does my pomegranate not flower?

Inadequate light levels are a central reason pomegranate plants fail to produce any flowers. A garden exposure that provides at least 8 to 10 hours of direct sun rays daily, especially from spring to fall is a necessity. The more sun and the warmer the growing season’s temperatures, the better.

What month does pomegranate bloom?

The blooming period is relatively long for pomegranates (April–June), but later-blooming flowers may not have time to develop into fully ripe fruit. Fruit ripening takes around 6–7 months for most pomegranates, so flowers blooming in April and May should be ready between Halloween and Thanksgiving.

How big does a pomegranate tree get?

The pomegranate grows to a height of 12–20′ and a spread of 12–20′ at maturity.

Why is my pomegranate tree dying?

Pomegranate trees can survive long periods of drought, but prolonged water restriction can lead to pomegranate leaves falling off and entire plant death. Make sure you irrigate your pomegranates adequately. Pests can also cause pomegranate leaf loss.

Are pomegranate trees Hardy?

Very cold hardy and very productive. These pomegranate trees are sweet, juicy and can survive temperatures down to 5 degrees in zones 6-9. Plus they produce an abundance of beautiful bright orange flowers over an extended period of time during the spring. Both the flowers and the fruit are produced at a very young age.

Can pomegranate tree survive winter?

Pomegranates produce their best fruit in regions of cool winters and hot, dry summers. Suitable for USDA zones 8-11, pomegranate tree care in winter means moving the plant indoors, especially if they grow in an area with poor cold air circulation or heavy soil.

Can pomegranate be grown indoors?

Despite their eccentric appearance, pomegranate trees (Punica granatum) are surprisingly well suited to growing indoors. Unlike many other fruit trees, they have shallow root systems which are a good match for container growing.

Do pomegranate trees attract bees?

The pomegranate requires bees for pollination; without proper pollination, your tree will not produce fruit. Basil, thyme and summer savory also attract bees. It can be especially helpful to allow herbs to flower, because introducing a spectrum of color into your garden keeps bees returning to the area.