Position
The Rose apple is a subtropical plant and enjoys hot, humid conditions. Plant these trees in a sunny spot with moist soil. These trees have a good resistance against wind and can even be grown as a windbreaker.
If planting in a cold, frost climate, plant your rose apple in a container and move indoors in winter.
Size
Rose apple trees can grow to between 7 and 12 metres in height.
Soil Type
Rose apple trees need moist, well-draining soil and will do well in most soils with a pH of 5 and higher. Adding plenty of compost in your soil will help the tree perform at its best.
Watering
The Rose apple tree can withstand drought but performs poorly with frost. Water regularly to keep the soil moist.
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). This will retain the moisture in the soil and will prevent weeds from taking over.
Fertilising
Apply 1 teaspoon of our slow-release nitrogen-rich berry fertiliser every 4-5 months.
Pruning
Rose apple trees grow naturally with a balanced canopy, so pruning is kept at a minimum.
Pests and Diseases
Aphids, citrus psylla, red scale, citrus greening. Spraying regularly with Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control ) will assist in either prevention or after the fact. If you already have aphids or mites, wash the tree with a harsh hosing, and when dry, spray with Neem oil or EM Control.
Practice good garden hygiene (remove fallen fruit and leaves).
Watch for root rot (if overwatered) and fungal infections during wet periods.
Harvesting
Fruits will ripen 4 months after flowering. If moisture and sunlight is not optimal, the fruit yield will be low. Harvest the fruit when they turn to a brighter colour as the fruit does not have a long shelf life.
