Description
The Pomegranate Wonderful is a classic variety with ruby red-skinned fruit with deep seeds. The fruit has a tangy, sweet flavour.
Pomegranates are high in vitamin C, vitamin K and folate. As such, they boost the immune system, reduce the signs of ageing, have powerful antioxidants, reduce inflammation and help to fight prostate cancer. The juice of one of these fruits has more than 40% of your daily vitamin C requirement.
Harvesting
The fruit of the pomegranate tree takes a long time to ripen (about 5 to 7 months), and most will ripen from about April. During hot and dry conditions, pomegranates can ripen earlier and faster, so the fruit should be picked just before fully mature as they crack if they are allowed to become overripe.
They are ready to be picked if they have good colour. When tapped, they sound metallic.
Use a scissors to cut the fruit off rather than tugging at them and possibly tearing the branches.
Position
Pomegranates thrive in regions with hot summers and mild winters. They can tolerate some cold, but prolonged frost can damage the fruit and affect flowering.
Pomegranate trees require full sun exposure (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily) to produce optimal fruit.
Space trees about 3 – 5 m apart to allow for proper growth and air circulation.
They do not like wind, so plant them in a protected spot.
Size
Pomegranates typically grow between 3 and 6 metres in height and have a wide canopy spread.
Soil Type
These trees are not fussy about the soil type they grow in, but they prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. (add a bag of acid compost) Sandy loam or loamy soil is ideal.
Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Watering
Once a tree is established, it can tolerate drought and heat very well. Even with no water, the tree will grow, but it won’t produce good quality fruit in any significant quantity. Water it about twice a month if there has been no rain. Keeping the soil moist during fruiting will prevent the fruits from splitting.
Fertilising
Nitrogen is essential for your pomegranate trees if they are not bearing fruit. Well-aged horse manure works wonders.
Apply our slow-release Berry/All-plant Fertiliser. For young trees, apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months. The roots will absorb what they need.
Pruning
Prune your pomegranate tree annually to remove dead or diseased wood, improve air circulation, and maintain a manageable size.
Prune in late winter to early spring before new growth begins.
Pest and Disease Management
Monitor for common pomegranate pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and fruit borers. Use organic or integrated pest management techniques to control pests.
Pomegranates can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew; ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk.
Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control) will assist in either prevention, or controlling outbreaks. If you already have pests, wash the plant down with a harsh hosing, and when dry, spray with Neem oil or EM Control.
