Description
The pulp can be dried in an oven and ground into a fine powder which can be added to cakes, bread, sweets, ice creams, or drinks, as flavouring and for its nutritional value. Carob powder ‘cocoa’ also has advantages over chocolate in that it has fewer calories and contains neither caffeine nor theobromine.
Health Benefits:
A study on the nutritional value of South African grown carob trees has shown that it is comparable with trees grown in other countries. The cultivars were found to be a good source of energy containing about 90% carbohydrates. The protein content was between 3 and 4% and seven essential amino acids were detected. Sucrose is the dominant sugar (up to 45%), while glucose and fructose made up the remainder.
Cultivars contained up to 36% dietary fibre and 3% polyphenols, both of which have remarkable nutritional benefits. They had low fat and sodium content; and good proportions of long-chain fatty acids, in terms of saturated to polyunsaturated fatty acids and omega-6 and omega-3 ratios.
Nine nutritionally important minerals were also detected, calcium, phosphorous, potassium, magnesium, sodium, manganese, iron, copper and zinc.
Uses:
The leaves of carob trees are browsed by cattle in rural areas around the world, and the pods with their sugary pulp are a staple in the diet of farm animals like cattle, pigs, goats, sheep and donkeys. They are also relished by children as a sweet snack, and are a mainstay for many people in times of famine.
The timber is hard and close-grained, and is prized for carpentry and the making of utensils. It is also excellent to burn as fuel, and makes a good, slow-burning charcoal.
The pods contain a polysaccharide gum, which is odourless, tasteless and colourless, and is used commercially in many products.
The Carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua) also known as Locust Tree and St John’s Bread, is a lovely shade tree with lush green foliage. It is pretty hardy and can tolerate dry conditions, making it a suitable tree for urban environments.
The female produces green flowers followed by brown seed pods.
The male flowers, which are reddish, produce a characteristic odour.
You will need a male and a female tree.
Position
Choose a sunny spot with full sun exposure and at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Space about 10m from other trees for their mature size and to improve air circulation around the tree.
Plant to the same depth as in the nursery container.
Soil
Well-draining soil is crucial. Loamy, sandy, and rocky soil is ideal. Can tolerate some salt.
Add organic matter, such as compost, to enhance soil drainage and promote a healthy soil structure that supports root development.
Adding half a bag of our Volcanic Rock Dust and a full bag of Superfrass will help promote rapid growth. They also protect the roots from insects.
Watering
Newly planted trees require consistent watering, but the soil should not be overly wet. Water deeply once a week, allowing the top few inches of soil to dry out between watering’s.
Once established, water the top 1-2 inches of soil when they are dry. Reduce frequency during cooler months. Over-watering can lead to root rot.
Mulching
Add a thick layer of pine bark mulch, keeping it approximately 5 cm thick, away from the tree trunk (any closer may cause excess moisture and damage the trunk). This mulch helps retain moisture in the soil, prevents weed growth, and provides a protective layer for the roots.
Fertilising
For young trees, apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months of our slow-release nitrogen-rich Berry/All-plant fertiliser. The roots will absorb what they require.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary, but it can be done to maintain the tree’s shape.
Pests and Diseases
The primary pests are scale insects, including the oleander scale, the carob moth, and the leopard moth, which target the tree’s leaves, branches, and fruits. Other minor pests can include aphids, borers, mealybugs, and rodents. Regular inspection and appropriate pest control measures can help manage these issues.
Be mindful of fungal diseases, such as root rot. To reduce disease risk, ensure good air circulation, and avoid overwatering.
Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control) will assist in either prevention or after the fact. If you already have aphids or mites, wash the tree with a harsh hosing, and when dry, spray with Neem oil or EM Control.
Harvesting
Pods are ready to harvest in late summer.
