Position
Full sun. Find an area where the tree gets, at least, 6 – 8 hours of sun during the summer months. Best suited to a tropical climate.
Size
The Ice Cream Tree is a fast-growing, large tropical tree with a broad, spreading canopy that provides excellent shade. Under ideal conditions, it can reach heights of up to 30 metres, making it an impressive feature tree for spacious gardens and orchards.
Soil Type
This is a nitrogen-fixer. It can be grown in poor soils, sandy to rich and loamy. Avoid clay soil. As ever, this tree requires good drainage.
Improve Soil Quality at Planting
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
Regular, consistent moisture is essential for the plant’s health, especially when it is young. Although this tree can withstand drought when fully grown, avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Do not allow the roots to dry out, as this can cause the plant to wilt and die. Drip irrigation is recommended.
Mulching
Add a thick layer of pine bark mulch, keeping it about 20 to 30 centimetres away from the tree trunk (any closer may cause excess moisture and damage the trunk). Pine Bark mulch helps retain moisture in the soil and prevents weeds.
Fertilising
This tree produces its own nitrogen, therefore it is unnecessary to add fertilizers. If it is struggling and losing leaves during winter, apply an organic potassium. Add compost around the tree occassionally.
Pruning
The ideal time to prune is in late winter. This tree can withstand heavy pruning but be sure to leave the ends of the branches as this is where the pods grow.
Remove dead or diseased branches, crossing branches, weak upright shoots (“water sprouts”). Thin the canopy to improve airflow, sunlight penetration and fruit quality.
Practice good garden hygiene (remove fallen pods and leaves). If pods are left on the ground, the seeds inside the pod will germinate quickly.
Watch for root rot (if overwatered) and fungal infections during wet periods.
Harvesting
Preferably allow the pods to fall to the ground or use a fruit picking device.
Pests & Diseases
They have a good relationship with some species of ants that protect the tree. Have very few pests or diseases. Best to keep a watch and preferablya use preventative measures by spraying with agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control)
