Position :
Tamarillo Tree Tomatoes should be planted in partial shade, not direct sunlight. Dappled shade from a large tree would be ideal.
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.
Fertilise :
Apply a fruit tree fertiliser each summer. For the first two months after planting, fertilise once a month.
It is an evergreen semi-tree (up to 5 meters tall), although it can be deciduous in cool climates. It is fast growing and will reach peak production after four years with a life expectancy of 8-12 years. It grows as a single upright trunk with lateral branches and has large, heart-shaped leaves.
Fruit is borne on laterals, so once the desired height is reached, snip off the growing top(s) to encourage lateral formation. Laterals will carry clusters of white flowers and 3-12 egg-shaped fruits per cluster. Laterals that have fruited must be removed and replaced with new branches, as they will produce fewer fruits in the following year.
Your Tree Tomato, Tamarillo, should start to produce fruits after about 18 months.
Should there be no fluctuation in temperature, Tamarillo’s are likely to fruit throughout the year.
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.
Pruning :
Pruning is necessary to ensure good fruit yield and to limit uneven ripening.
Harvesting :
They are harvested by pulling in a snapping motion or preferably using scissors, leaving 2-3 cm of the stem still attached for more extended storage.
Fruits can be refridgerated for up to 10 weeks; however, discolouration may occur should temperatures dip below 3 degrees. As Tamarillo fruits containa lot of pectin, making for easier preservation.
They are versatile and can be eaten raw, made into the most delicious tomato juice, jams, stews, etc.
