Even for those who live in themagical Goldilocks zone, Zone 10, it’s not all smooth sailing.
It will take constant sun, rich soil, and just the right amount of water.
Learn how to grow and care for the Cherimoya tree in this guide.
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check that to select a site that is sheltered from high winds.
Spacing, Depth, and Support
The tree should be supported by a tree stake.
Secure the tree to the stake with tree ties.
The Spruce / Heidi Kolsky
This exotic edible has also been referred to as “ice cream fruit” because of its custardy consistency.
Here are some key things to remember.
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Light
The Cherimoya treerequires full sunbut is prone to having its leaves burn.
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Soil
Testing your soil before planting your tree is a good idea.
The cherimoya likes rich loamy soil with good drainage that falls into a pH range of 6.5-7.6.
Fertilizer
During the growing season, it is a good idea to fertilize your plant often.
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Every three months is about right, with a general-purpose 10-10-10 fertilizer at the drip line.
Pollination
The only reason people will look to growing the cherimoya is for its delicious fruit.
That is where you become the pollinator!
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You will be collecting and dispersing the pollen with a regular old artist’s paintbrush.
Cherimoyatrees are monoecious, meaning it has both male and female flowers.
Enjoy the fruits of your labor in no time!
Types of Cherimoya
There are several varieties of cherimoya a gardener can grow.
Here are some of the most popular.
Both also have green rinds and white flesh containing black seeds.
However, their visual similarities end there.
Sugar apples have a bumpy exterior, while cherimoyas have overlapping scales.
They differ in their regions of growth and flesh flavor.
The two fruits also taste different.
The sugar apple is known for its sweet and creamy flavor, which is often compared to custard.
Its texture is juicy and buttery, and it carries a rich aroma.
Some also describe its taste as tropical with a hint of mint and cinnamon.
It has a creamy texture with a consistency like yogurt.
Harvesting Cherimoya
To determine if a cherimoya fruit is ripe, gently press it with your thumb.
If there is a slight give, it is probably ready to be picked.
Do not wait until the fruit starts to brown, as this is a sign that it is overripening.
after you snag picked the fruit, refrigerate it and double-check to consume it within two days.
Propagating & Growing Cherimoya From Seed
Cherimoya trees can be successfully started and propagated by seed.
Here’s the best method to follow.
Cover them with a plant blanket or wrap the trunk and scaffold branches with sponge foam.
Occasionally, they can be affected by oak root fungus and verticillium wilt.
These problems can be prevented by ensuring proper watering and adequate drainage.
Mealybugs can be bothersome to Cherimoya trees, especially if any ant infestations are nearby.
A mechanical or chemical barrier on the trunk of the tree can lower the risk.
Eventually the tree should be planted permanently outdoors in the right climate.
Growing a Cherimoya tree can be a test of a gardener’s patience.
It will begin to bear at least three years after initial planting and may take up to five years.
University of California Agricultural and Natural Resources Extension.
