Understanding Feijoa Propagation: A Step-by-Step Guide
**Propagating feijoa** is a relatively easy process for gardeners through several propagation methods including cuttings, layering, and division. Feijoa is commonly propagated by taking softwood or hardwood [*cuttings*](<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cutting_(plant)> ).
More comprehensive information and care guidelines can be read here.
Choosing the Right Time and Tools for Feijoa Propagation
The best time to propagate feijoa is during periods of active growth, namely **spring** and **summer**. Feijoa plants grow best when they receive ample warmth and moisture, making spring and summer the most conducive seasons for successful rooting.
Propagating during these months increases your chances of success for a few reasons:
- Plants are actively pushing out new growth from stems and roots, making cuttings more responsive to rooting.
- Outdoor temperatures are warmer, creating optimal conditions for root formation.
- More daylight hours allow cuttings to produce energy through photosynthesis to fuel root growth.
Tools Needed
A few basic tools are required to propagate feijoa from cuttings:
- Sharp, sterilized pruners or loppers to take clean, viable cuttings.
- Rooting hormone to spray or dip cuttings before planting to encourage root growth. Rooting hormone is a plant growth regulator containing auxins that stimulate root initiation.
- Small pots or trays filled with a free-draining rooting medium like perlite, vermiculite or coarse sand.
- Misting bottle to keep cuttings from drying out until roots form.
Essential Techniques for Feijoa Propagation Success
There are several effective techniques for propagating feijoa through cuttings, division and layering. Below are the most reliable methods:
Cuttings
Feijoa can be propagated through both hardwood and softwood cuttings.
Softwood cuttingswork best from new spring growth taken in May to June before stems harden off. These cuttings root faster but are more susceptibleto rot.
Hardwood cuttings are taken from mature, year-old wood in fall or winter when plants are dormant. Although hardwood cuttings root more slowly, they are less prone to rot.
Cuttings should be 6 to 10 inches long, stripped of their lower leaves and treated with rooting hormone . Planting depth should be just to the node. Maintain humidity around the cuttings until they root within2 to 3 months.
Division
Feijoas can also be propagated through division of mature plants.
In fall or spring,Divide the rooted rhizome into sections with shoots and roots.
Each section should have 3 to 4 buds or shoots.
Treat the edges with rooting hormone and pot up sections.
Water well and place pots in partial shade.
New plants will begin to form within 6 to12 months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Propagating Feijoa
New gardeners often make certain mistakes when propagating feijoa plants from cuttings. Avoiding the following common issues will greatly improve your chances of success:
1. Forgetting to Use Rooting Hormone
Failing to apply rooting hormone before planting cuttings is a major cause of poor root formation. These growth regulators contain auxins that stimulate the growth of adventitious roots.
2. Planting Cuttings Too Deeply
Planting feijoa cuttings with too much stem buried can lead to stem rot as water collects around the buried stem section. Cuttings should be planted just deep enough so the stem is stable.
3. Overwatering Cuttings
New cuttings are prone to rot if the rooting medium stays constantly saturated. Only water cuttings when the soil surface starts to dry and use a mister to maintain high humidity.
4. Placing Cuttings in Full Sun
Newly rooted cuttings need partial shade to avoid drying out. Only move cuttings to full sun after roots are established and the plant is self-sufficient.
5. Failure to Sterilize Tools and Pots
Reusing dirty pruning tools and nursery pots can transmit diseases to new cuttings. Always wash tools in bleach solution and rinse pots before propagating.
Avoiding these common mistakes will give your feijoa cuttings the best chance at successful rooting and establishment into healthy, productive plants.
Troubleshooting Tips for Feijoa Propagation Challenges
Common issues with propagating feijoa plants can usually be resolved through careful adjustments. Be on the lookout for signs of root or stem rot, as these are indications that conditions need improvement.
Root or stem rot occurs when tissues are deprived of oxygen due to overwatering or poor drainage. Signs include brownish-black coloration, mushy tissue, and offensive odors. To fix this, reduce watering frequency and improve soil drainage by amending with materials like perlite or sand. Changing out rooting hormone products may also be warranted if rot develops quickly after propagation.
Another important troubleshooting step is to sterilize pruning tools and pots before and after use. This involves soaking tools and pots in a 10% bleach solution to kill any pathogens. Sterilization should be done both before taking cuttings and between each propagation cycle. Not sterilizing properly can introduce bacteria and fungi that cause root and stem rot.
In summary, paying close attention to any signs of distress and making targeted adjustments can help you overcome common challenges in feijoa propagation. Regular sterilization, optimized watering, and alternative rooting hormones are some of the key tactics for troubleshooting issues and ensuring success.
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
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- 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
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- What Is The Lifespan Of Feijoa
- Expert’S Latest Complete Guide On Sunlight Feijoa
- How To Water Feijoa
- How To Propagate Feijoa
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- 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.
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.
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.
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 recipes can you make with feijoas?
Feijoas can be used in smoothies, juices, jams, jellies, chutneys, pies, cakes, ice cream and other desserts.
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.
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 juice feijoas?
Yes, you can juice feijoas. Combine with sweeter fruits like pineapple or orange. Strain pulp if desired.
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 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’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 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 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.
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.
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 you eat feijoa fruit raw?
Yes, feijoas can be eaten raw right off the tree. They are delicious fresh.
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.
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 recipes can you make with feijoas?
Feijoas can be used in smoothies, juices, jams, jellies, chutneys, pies, cakes, ice cream and other desserts.
