What Triggers the Blooming of Feijoa Plants?
Feijoa plants bloom in response to adequate winter chilling and increasing day length in late winter and spring. Feijoa bloom mainly depends on accumulation of sufficient chilling hours between 32 to 50°F (0 to 10°C). Chilling requirements of feijoa range from 500 to 1,500 chilling hours. Once chilling needs are met and days become longer in spring, the plants send out flowers.
More comprehensive information and care guidelines can be read here.
The Blooming Season of Feijoa: A Timeline
Feijoa trees typically bloom between late winter and early spring, with the specific timing depending on the hemisphere the tree is grown in. In the Southern Hemisphere, feijoas generally start blooming from August to November. In contrast, in the Northern Hemisphere, bloom time is typically from February to April.
The bloom period of feijoa trees can be summarized as follows:
- Southern Hemisphere
| Time of Year | Activity |
|---|---|
| August | Flowers start to appear |
| September to October | Peak blooming period |
| November | Blooms gradually fade |
- Northern Hemisphere
| Time of Year | Activity |
|---|---|
| February | Initial flowering starts |
| March | Most trees are in full bloom |
| April | Blooms begin to wilt and fall off |
During peak blooming, feijoa trees become covered with beautiful fragrant white flowers that resemble honeysuckle or jasmine blossoms. The abundant flowers give way to oval-shaped fruit that ripens from green to light purple or red.
Factors Affecting the Frequency of Feijoa Blooms
Several factors influence how often feijoa trees bloom and the abundance of flowers and fruit they produce. The primary factors are:
Winter chilling: As mentioned earlier,adequate winter chilling is essential for triggering bloom in feijoa trees. Without meeting their chilling requirements between 500 to 1,500 hours, feijoas may not bloom at all or bloom poorly.
Soil moisture: Maintaining adequate soil moisture during bloom and early fruit development is crucial. Dry soil can cause flower and fruit drop,resulting in lower yields. Irrigate feijoas regularly from winter until harvest.
Nutrient levels: Feijoa trees that are deficient in major nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium may have reduced flowering and fruit set. Conduct a soil test and then fertilize based on recommendations.
Weather conditions: Extreme temperatures, heavy rains and high winds during bloom can damage flowers and reduce fruit set in feijoas. Frost and hail are particularly detrimental.
Pruning: Heavy pruning of feijoa trees in late winter can stimulate increased flowering and fruit production. However,over-pruning may reduce yield potential. Only remove dead, diseased or crossing branches.
By optimizing these major factors, feijoa growers can maximize the frequency of blooms to every year or even twice per year for some cultivars. Annual yields of 50 to 150 pounds of fruit per tree are common with good management practices.
How to Encourage Abundant Blooming in Feijoa Trees
Ensuring proper chilling, pruning feijoa trees heavily in late winter, fertilizing based on soil test, irrigating regularly and adjusting spray programs can help maximize bloom and fruit set. Winter chilling is essential for flowering in feijoa trees. Feijoas need between 600 to 1,000 chilling hours below 7°C for reliable blooming and fruiting. Pruning feijoa trees back by around 30% in late winter after chilling requirements are met can stimulate growth and encourage more flowering laterals.
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring at a rate of 50-100 grams per square meter based on leaf testing to provide adequate nutrients for bloom and fruit development.Irrigate regularly during the blooming period to keep soil moist but not soggy, watering once or twice per week. Reduce pest and disease pressures during bloom by spraying horticulture oil to smother overwintering pests and applying preventative fungicides for issues like botrytis and powdery mildew. Taking these steps can help maximize the number of flowers that open and set fruit for a bountiful feijoa crop.
More Helpful Guide
- How Many Calories Are In A Feijoa Fruit
- Can Feijoa Cause Allergic Reactions
- Can You Ferment Feijoa Fruit
- How Do You Make Feijoa Fruit Fly
- What Is The Difference Between Pineapple Guava And Feijoa
- What Kinds Of Feijoa Fruit Are There
- How Do You Propagate Feijoa Trees
- What Diseases Affect Feijoa Plants
- How Do You Prune Feijoa Trees
- What Kind Of Climate Do Feijoa Trees Need
- How Long Does It Take For A Feijoa Tree To Bear Fruit
- What Is The Best Soil For Feijoa Plants
- How Far Apart Should Feijoa Trees Be Planted
- How Do You Grow Feijoa Plants From Seeds
- What Are Feijoa Leaves Used For
- What Does Feijoa Fruit Taste Like
- How Long Do Feijoas Last After Ripening
- How Do You Store Feijoa Fruit
- How Do You Choose A Ripe Feijoa Fruit
- What Are The Health Benefits Of Feijoa Fruit
- What Is Feijoa
- 10 Best Feijoa Companion Plants And 3 Avoid
- Optimizing Soil Conditions For Healthy Feijoa
- Preventing Pests And Diseases In Feijoa
- The Top 5 Fertilizers For Healthy Feijoa
- How To Know If Feijoa Is Healthy? Expert’S Latest Advice
- How Often Do Feijoa Bloom
- The Best Place To Put Feijoa
- What Is The Lifespan Of Feijoa
- Expert’S Latest Complete Guide On Sunlight Feijoa
- How To Water Feijoa
- How To Propagate Feijoa
- How To Propagate Feijoa
- How To Transplante Feijoa
- How To Transplante Feijoa
- How To Grow And Care Feijoa
- How To Care And Grow Feijoa
Frequently Asked Question
Can you juice feijoas?
Yes, you can juice feijoas. Combine with sweeter fruits like pineapple or orange. Strain pulp if desired.
Can feijoa trees be grown as container plants?
Yes, feijoa trees can be grown in containers. Use a large pot, provide good drainage and bring indoors if cold. Limit size with pruning.
What is the proper way to harvest feijoa fruit?
Pick feijoas by hand, twist and pull to separate from fruit stem cleanly. Take care not to bruise the delicate fruit.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
How do you plant and grow a feijoa tree?
Plant feijoa trees in well draining, slightly acidic soil. Space them 15-20 feet apart. Fertilize in spring and water regularly for the first 2 years until established.
Can you juice feijoas?
Yes, you can juice feijoas. Combine with sweeter fruits like pineapple or orange. Strain pulp if desired.
What is the proper way to harvest feijoa fruit?
Pick feijoas by hand, twist and pull to separate from fruit stem cleanly. Take care not to bruise the delicate fruit.
Are feijoa trees cold hardy?
Feijoa trees can tolerate temperatures as low as 10 to 15°F when mature, so they can handle cooler climates.
What is the proper way to harvest feijoa fruit?
Pick feijoas by hand, twist and pull to separate from fruit stem cleanly. Take care not to bruise the delicate fruit.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
What does a feijoa taste like?
The flesh of the feijoa is whitish translucent, juicy, and gritty soft. The flavor is sweet and tart with hints of guava and pineapple. The seeds in the center are edible.
Where do feijoa trees originate from?
Feijoa trees originated in regions of South America including southern Brazil, parts of Colombia, Uruguay and northern Argentina. They thrive in areas with cool winters and hot summers.
What does a feijoa taste like?
The flesh of the feijoa is whitish translucent, juicy, and gritty soft. The flavor is sweet and tart with hints of guava and pineapple. The seeds in the center are edible.
What nutrients and benefits are in feijoa fruit?
Feijoas are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals like potassium. They may help boost immunity and digestion.
How do you preserve feijoas by freezing or drying?
Freeze feijoa pulp in airtight containers for 6-12 months. Dehydrate slices in a food dehydrator or low oven until chewy.
What climate is best for growing feijoas?
Feijoas grow best in zones 8-11 with moderate humidity and evenly distributed rainfall. They need at least 200 chill hours in winter.
Can feijoa trees be grown as container plants?
Yes, feijoa trees can be grown in containers. Use a large pot, provide good drainage and bring indoors if cold. Limit size with pruning.
What nutrients and benefits are in feijoa fruit?
Feijoas are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals like potassium. They may help boost immunity and digestion.
How do you plant and grow a feijoa tree?
Plant feijoa trees in well draining, slightly acidic soil. Space them 15-20 feet apart. Fertilize in spring and water regularly for the first 2 years until established.
What recipes can you make with feijoas?
Feijoas can be used in smoothies, juices, jams, jellies, chutneys, pies, cakes, ice cream and other desserts.
What nutrients and benefits are in feijoa fruit?
Feijoas are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals like potassium. They may help boost immunity and digestion.
What’s the shelf life of fresh feijoas?
Fresh feijoas will last about 5-7 days at room temperature. Refrigerate in plastic bag to extend shelf life up to 2 weeks.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
How do you prepare feijoa for cooking and baking?
To cook feijoa, simply halve and scoop out flesh. Puree cooked fruit for sauces, chutneys or bake into tarts, muffins or cakes.
How do you store fresh feijoas?
Store fresh feijoas loosely wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator crisper drawer. They will keep for 1-2 weeks.
What is the proper way to harvest feijoa fruit?
Pick feijoas by hand, twist and pull to separate from fruit stem cleanly. Take care not to bruise the delicate fruit.
What is a feijoa?
The feijoa is a small oval shaped fruit native to South America. It has a sweet, aromatic flavor reminiscent of pineapple, guava, and strawberry.
How do you tell if a feijoa is ripe?
Ripe feijoas give slightly when pressed gently. They will be aromatic and show some yellowing. Avoid any overly soft or bruised fruit.
When is feijoa fruit ready to harvest?
Feijoa fruit are ready for harvest when they feel slightly soft and drop to the ground when lightly shaken. Harvest time is late summer into fall.
What’s the shelf life of fresh feijoas?
Fresh feijoas will last about 5-7 days at room temperature. Refrigerate in plastic bag to extend shelf life up to 2 weeks.
Are feijoa trees cold hardy?
Feijoa trees can tolerate temperatures as low as 10 to 15°F when mature, so they can handle cooler climates.
What does a feijoa taste like?
The flesh of the feijoa is whitish translucent, juicy, and gritty soft. The flavor is sweet and tart with hints of guava and pineapple. The seeds in the center are edible.
How do you prepare feijoa for cooking and baking?
To cook feijoa, simply halve and scoop out flesh. Puree cooked fruit for sauces, chutneys or bake into tarts, muffins or cakes.
Where do feijoa trees originate from?
Feijoa trees originated in regions of South America including southern Brazil, parts of Colombia, Uruguay and northern Argentina. They thrive in areas with cool winters and hot summers.
How do you plant and grow a feijoa tree?
Plant feijoa trees in well draining, slightly acidic soil. Space them 15-20 feet apart. Fertilize in spring and water regularly for the first 2 years until established.
When is feijoa fruit ready to harvest?
Feijoa fruit are ready for harvest when they feel slightly soft and drop to the ground when lightly shaken. Harvest time is late summer into fall.
How do you plant and grow a feijoa tree?
Plant feijoa trees in well draining, slightly acidic soil. Space them 15-20 feet apart. Fertilize in spring and water regularly for the first 2 years until established.
How do you preserve feijoas by freezing or drying?
Freeze feijoa pulp in airtight containers for 6-12 months. Dehydrate slices in a food dehydrator or low oven until chewy.
Where do feijoa trees originate from?
Feijoa trees originated in regions of South America including southern Brazil, parts of Colombia, Uruguay and northern Argentina. They thrive in areas with cool winters and hot summers.
How do you prepare feijoa for cooking and baking?
To cook feijoa, simply halve and scoop out flesh. Puree cooked fruit for sauces, chutneys or bake into tarts, muffins or cakes.
Where do feijoa trees originate from?
Feijoa trees originated in regions of South America including southern Brazil, parts of Colombia, Uruguay and northern Argentina. They thrive in areas with cool winters and hot summers.
What climate is best for growing feijoas?
Feijoas grow best in zones 8-11 with moderate humidity and evenly distributed rainfall. They need at least 200 chill hours in winter.
What is the proper way to harvest feijoa fruit?
Pick feijoas by hand, twist and pull to separate from fruit stem cleanly. Take care not to bruise the delicate fruit.
What’s the shelf life of fresh feijoas?
Fresh feijoas will last about 5-7 days at room temperature. Refrigerate in plastic bag to extend shelf life up to 2 weeks.
What is a feijoa?
The feijoa is a small oval shaped fruit native to South America. It has a sweet, aromatic flavor reminiscent of pineapple, guava, and strawberry.
Are feijoa trees cold hardy?
Feijoa trees can tolerate temperatures as low as 10 to 15°F when mature, so they can handle cooler climates.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
What does a feijoa taste like?
The flesh of the feijoa is whitish translucent, juicy, and gritty soft. The flavor is sweet and tart with hints of guava and pineapple. The seeds in the center are edible.
What nutrients and benefits are in feijoa fruit?
Feijoas are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals like potassium. They may help boost immunity and digestion.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
What is a feijoa?
The feijoa is a small oval shaped fruit native to South America. It has a sweet, aromatic flavor reminiscent of pineapple, guava, and strawberry.
How do you plant and grow a feijoa tree?
Plant feijoa trees in well draining, slightly acidic soil. Space them 15-20 feet apart. Fertilize in spring and water regularly for the first 2 years until established.
What nutrients and benefits are in feijoa fruit?
Feijoas are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals like potassium. They may help boost immunity and digestion.
What recipes can you make with feijoas?
Feijoas can be used in smoothies, juices, jams, jellies, chutneys, pies, cakes, ice cream and other desserts.
What’s the best way to eat a fresh feijoa?
Cut a feijoa in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Optionally add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice. Enjoy the sweet, aromatic taste.
How do you tell if a feijoa is ripe?
Ripe feijoas give slightly when pressed gently. They will be aromatic and show some yellowing. Avoid any overly soft or bruised fruit.
How do you store fresh feijoas?
Store fresh feijoas loosely wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator crisper drawer. They will keep for 1-2 weeks.
Can feijoa trees be grown as container plants?
Yes, feijoa trees can be grown in containers. Use a large pot, provide good drainage and bring indoors if cold. Limit size with pruning.
What’s the shelf life of fresh feijoas?
Fresh feijoas will last about 5-7 days at room temperature. Refrigerate in plastic bag to extend shelf life up to 2 weeks.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
How do you prepare feijoa for cooking and baking?
To cook feijoa, simply halve and scoop out flesh. Puree cooked fruit for sauces, chutneys or bake into tarts, muffins or cakes.
What climate is best for growing feijoas?
Feijoas grow best in zones 8-11 with moderate humidity and evenly distributed rainfall. They need at least 200 chill hours in winter.
What’s the best way to eat a fresh feijoa?
Cut a feijoa in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Optionally add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice. Enjoy the sweet, aromatic taste.
Are feijoa trees cold hardy?
Feijoa trees can tolerate temperatures as low as 10 to 15°F when mature, so they can handle cooler climates.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
What nutrients and benefits are in feijoa fruit?
Feijoas are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals like potassium. They may help boost immunity and digestion.
When is feijoa fruit ready to harvest?
Feijoa fruit are ready for harvest when they feel slightly soft and drop to the ground when lightly shaken. Harvest time is late summer into fall.
Where do feijoa trees originate from?
Feijoa trees originated in regions of South America including southern Brazil, parts of Colombia, Uruguay and northern Argentina. They thrive in areas with cool winters and hot summers.
How do you tell if a feijoa is ripe?
Ripe feijoas give slightly when pressed gently. They will be aromatic and show some yellowing. Avoid any overly soft or bruised fruit.
Can feijoa trees be grown as container plants?
Yes, feijoa trees can be grown in containers. Use a large pot, provide good drainage and bring indoors if cold. Limit size with pruning.
Can you eat feijoa fruit raw?
Yes, feijoas can be eaten raw right off the tree. They are delicious fresh.
Can feijoa trees be grown as container plants?
Yes, feijoa trees can be grown in containers. Use a large pot, provide good drainage and bring indoors if cold. Limit size with pruning.
What nutrients and benefits are in feijoa fruit?
Feijoas are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals like potassium. They may help boost immunity and digestion.
Can you eat feijoa fruit raw?
Yes, feijoas can be eaten raw right off the tree. They are delicious fresh.
How do you plant and grow a feijoa tree?
Plant feijoa trees in well draining, slightly acidic soil. Space them 15-20 feet apart. Fertilize in spring and water regularly for the first 2 years until established.
Where do feijoa trees originate from?
Feijoa trees originated in regions of South America including southern Brazil, parts of Colombia, Uruguay and northern Argentina. They thrive in areas with cool winters and hot summers.
What does a feijoa taste like?
The flesh of the feijoa is whitish translucent, juicy, and gritty soft. The flavor is sweet and tart with hints of guava and pineapple. The seeds in the center are edible.
How do you store fresh feijoas?
Store fresh feijoas loosely wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator crisper drawer. They will keep for 1-2 weeks.
What climate is best for growing feijoas?
Feijoas grow best in zones 8-11 with moderate humidity and evenly distributed rainfall. They need at least 200 chill hours in winter.
What recipes can you make with feijoas?
Feijoas can be used in smoothies, juices, jams, jellies, chutneys, pies, cakes, ice cream and other desserts.
How do you plant and grow a feijoa tree?
Plant feijoa trees in well draining, slightly acidic soil. Space them 15-20 feet apart. Fertilize in spring and water regularly for the first 2 years until established.
What’s the best way to eat a fresh feijoa?
Cut a feijoa in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Optionally add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice. Enjoy the sweet, aromatic taste.
What is a feijoa?
The feijoa is a small oval shaped fruit native to South America. It has a sweet, aromatic flavor reminiscent of pineapple, guava, and strawberry.
How do you prepare feijoa for cooking and baking?
To cook feijoa, simply halve and scoop out flesh. Puree cooked fruit for sauces, chutneys or bake into tarts, muffins or cakes.
What is the proper way to harvest feijoa fruit?
Pick feijoas by hand, twist and pull to separate from fruit stem cleanly. Take care not to bruise the delicate fruit.
Can you juice feijoas?
Yes, you can juice feijoas. Combine with sweeter fruits like pineapple or orange. Strain pulp if desired.
Are feijoa trees cold hardy?
Feijoa trees can tolerate temperatures as low as 10 to 15°F when mature, so they can handle cooler climates.
Can you eat feijoa fruit raw?
Yes, feijoas can be eaten raw right off the tree. They are delicious fresh.
What’s the shelf life of fresh feijoas?
Fresh feijoas will last about 5-7 days at room temperature. Refrigerate in plastic bag to extend shelf life up to 2 weeks.
Where do feijoa trees originate from?
Feijoa trees originated in regions of South America including southern Brazil, parts of Colombia, Uruguay and northern Argentina. They thrive in areas with cool winters and hot summers.
Can feijoa trees be grown as container plants?
Yes, feijoa trees can be grown in containers. Use a large pot, provide good drainage and bring indoors if cold. Limit size with pruning.
