Position
Full sun or partial shade. Best suited to a tropical climate.
Size
Typically grows 4 – 5 metres in height with a spread of 3 – 4 metres.
Soil Type
Requires well-drained, slightly acidic soil pH 5.5 – 6.5. Adding half a bag of our Volcanic Rock Dust (R25 per bag) and a bag of Superfrass (R25 per bag) will assist in rapid growth. They also protect the roots from being eaten by insects.
Watering
Regular, consistent moisture is essential for the plant’s health, especially when it is young. 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.
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
Apply 3 teaspoons every 4 months of our slow-release all-plant fertiliser. The roots will absorb what they need.
Pruning
The best time to prune a Red Rambutan “Jarum Emas” tree is immediately after harvesting, once the tree has finished fruiting. This allows the tree to recover and produce strong new shoots for the next flowering season.
For South African subtropical conditions, this is usually late summer to early autumn after the main crop. Avoid heavy pruning during winter or just before flowering, as this can reduce the next season’s fruit set. Remove dead or diseased branches, crossing branches, weak upright shoots (“water sprouts”).
Lightly thin the canopy to improve airflow, sunlight penetration and fruit quality. Reduce excessive height to make harvesting easier.
Heavy pruning can delay flowering and fruit production for a season.
Harvesting
Allow the fruit to remain on the tree until it is fully coloured and beautifully sweet for the best flavour and quality. Harvest whole fruit clusters using pruning shears or a long-handled pruning pole. Avoid pulling individual fruits, as damaged skins spoil more quickly.
Pick during the cool early morning or late afternoon to help keep the fruit fresh and prevent moisture loss.
Protect ripening fruit by covering trees with netting a few weeks before harvest to reduce damage from birds, bats, and squirrels.
Pests & Diseases
Susceptible to many pests and diseases. Best to keep a watch and preferably use preventative measures by spraying with agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control)
