Understanding the Native Climate of Feijoa Trees
Feijoa trees, known as pineapple guava, are native to the cool, temperate climate of southern South America. They thrive in areas with warm summers between 60 to 80 °F and mild winterswhere overnight lows are above 30 °F.The feijoa generally grows best in regions with a frost-free period of at least 200 days due to their sensitivity to freezing temperatures.
More comprehensive information and care guidelines can be read here.
Essential Factors for Feijoa Tree Growth
The optimal growth and yield of feijoa trees require several essential factors:
• Moderate temperatures – Feijoas grow best in warm climate conditions with temperatures between 60 to 80 °F during the day and above freezing at night. Extended periods of extreme heat or cold stress can reduce fruit production.
• Adequate moisture – Feijoa trees have a medium water requirement and prefer regular irrigation during their active growing periods. The soil should be kept moist but well-drained to provide sufficient water for healthy growth and fruiting.
• Well-draining soil – Feijoas grow best in fertile, well-aerated soil with good drainage. Soil that remains wet for extended periods can cause root rot and inhibit growth. Adding organic matter such as compost can improve soil structure and drainage.
• Rich organic matter – Feijoa trees benefit from soil with high organic content to provide nutrients and improve water retention. Organic matter also promotes beneficial soil microbial activity that aids in nutrient uptake.
• Protection from frost and wind – Young feijoa trees are susceptible to frost and wind damage. Providing shelter through windbreaks and covers during establishment helps protect roots and shoots. Mature trees can tolerate some cold and wind but benefit from protection during extreme events.
• Appropriate pH – Feijoa prefers slightly acidic soil between pH 5.5 to 6.5 for optimal nutrient availability. Liming the soil can raise the pH if it is overly acidic while adding sulfur can lower pH of alkaline soils.
Optimal Temperatures for Feijoa Trees
The ideal temperature range for optimal growth and fruit production of feijoatrees is between 60 to 80 °F during the day and above freezing at night.
• Feijoa trees originate from cool and temperate climates in southern South America where they are adapted to warm summers and mild winters. They require a certain number of “chill hours” with temperatures below 45°F to break dormancy and initiate flowering.
• Daytime temperatures between 68 to 77 °F are considered optimal for fruiting and vegetative growth of feijoa trees. Higher temperatures above 86°F can reduce fruit set and yield while prolonging the harvesting period.
• Night temperatures above 32°F and below 55°F are favorable for floral bud formation, flowering and fruit set in feijoas. Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 30°F can cause damage due to frost.
• Feijoas grow best where there is a frost-free period of at least 200 days to allow for active growth and sufficient time for fruit maturation. Areas with freezing temperatures into spring and fall can limit fruit production and quality.
• Feijoa trees become semi-dormant during winter in their native region. However, they require some degree of chilling to break dormancy and flower properly the following season.
•Providing wind protection during periods of extreme cold can help shield the canopy and roots from damage, especially for young or recently transplanted feijoa trees.
Soil Requirements for Healthy Feijoa Trees
The soil conditions required for optimal growth and production of feijoa trees include:
• Well-drained soil – Feijoas grow best in soil that drains well to allow excess water to percolate through while still maintaining moisture levels. Soils that remain soggy cause root rot issues and stunted growth.
• Loamy soil – Feijoa trees thrive in loamy soil that has a balance of sand, silt and clay. This soil type has good aeration, water retention and nutrient holding capacity. Avoid heavy clay soil that is poorly drained or overly sandy soil with low water retention.
• High organic matter – Feijoas benefit from soil with 2% to 5% organic matter content to support nutrient availability and water retention. Adding compost, aged manure or other organic amendments can increase organic matter and improve soil health.
• Appropriate pH – Feijoa prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 to 6.5 for optimum growth. The ideal pH range ensures most plant nutrients are available while restricting levels of elements that can be toxic in excess.
• Nutrient-rich soil – Feijoa trees require adequate levels of phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium and micronutrients for healthy growth and production. The soil should be tested to determine fertility levels and any required soil amendments.
The soil surrounding feijoa tree:
| Requirement | Benefits |
|---|---|
| High organic matter | Nutrients, water retention, aeration |
| Well-draining | Prevent root rot, support plant oxygen uptake |
| Loamy texture | Good aeration, retention and fertility |
| Slightly acidic pH | Optimum nutrient availability |
| Adequate nutrients | Healthy vegetative growth and fruiting |
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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.
