Position
Full sun to light shade. Best fruit colour develops in full sun. Protect from strong wind and frost.
Size
Grows 1–1.5 m tall and wide. Slow to moderate growth rate.
Soil Type
Well-draining, sandy to loamy soil. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil. Avoid waterlogged conditions. Add half a bag of acid compost to reduce the pH.
Give your plants the best possible start by adding a bag of Volcanic Rock Dust (R25 per bag) to the soil. Volcanic Rock Dust helps replenish essential minerals and trace elements that have been depleted from our soils over time.
We also recommend adding a bag of Superfrass (R25 per bag) when planting. Superfrass provides a natural source of NPK and micronutrients to encourage strong, healthy growth, while also helping to improve the plant’s natural resistance to pests.
Together, these products help create a nutrient-rich growing environment and give your plants the foundation they need to establish and thrive.
Watering
Moderate watering. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
Mulch
Apply a 5–10 cm layer of pine bark mulch around the root zone, keeping it clear of the trunk. Mulch helps conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and improve soil fertility. Keep mulch away from the crown to prevent rot.
Fertilising
Apply 1 teaspoon every 4 months of our slow-release all-plant fertiliser. The roots will absorb what they need. Supplement with a small amount of well-rotted manure to encourage healthy growth and abundant fruit production.
Pruning
Minimal pruning required. Remove dead or damaged leaves at the base. Remove offsets (pups) if propagation is desired.
Harvesting
Fruit is ready when it develops a deep red colour and a sweet aroma. Harvest by cutting the fruit stalk cleanly from the base. The plant usually produces one main fruit before the mother plant declines, while pups continue growth.
Pests & Diseases
Watch for mealybugs, scale insects, and root rot in overly wet soil. Good airflow and proper drainage reduce most issues.
Preferably use preventative measures by spraying with Organic agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control)
