There is nothing quite like the flavour of homegrown feijoas to signify the approach of autumn in New Zealand. These incredibly hardy trees are easy to grow. Thus, they are a good choice for gardeners, regardless of their expertise.
The Plant Company, being a company with huge experience in gardening, would like to offer you professional gardening advice so that your feijoa plant will be healthy. With minimal attention, you will be rewarded with generous fruit yields and the bonus of vibrant crimson blooms during the warmer months.
Let us discuss in this post how you can successfully grow this plant in the climatic conditions of New Zeeland and its surrounding areas.
1. Choosing the Right Variety
Not all feijoas are created equal.
Some key varieties to consider:
- Unique: Self-fertile and reliable for smaller gardens.
- Bambina: Compact and ideal for pots.
- Apollo & Mammoth: Great for larger yields and cross-pollination.
Planting two different varieties extends your harvest and improves fruit set.
2. When and Where to Plant
The right time, and place are the keys to success:
- Best planting time: Autumn (March-May) or spring (September-November) in frost-prone areas.
- Sunlight: It prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Soil: Free-draining soil, which is improved with compost or sheep pellets. Avoid damp places.
When it comes to hedges, plant spacing should be 1-1.5m. In containers, opt for a dwarf strain such as Bambina.
3. Planting Your Feijoa
Follow these steps for a strong start:
- Excavate a hole twice as deep and wide as the root ball.
- To supply nutrients, add organic material, such as compost..
- Plant, backfill and water in thoroughly.
- Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture and keep weeds at bay.
Potted feijoas need quality citrus & fruit mix and regular watering.
4. Ongoing Care Tips
Keep your tree healthy and productive:
- Watering: Deeply during fruit development (mid-late summer). Avoid overwatering.
- Fertilising: Feed with a balanced fertiliser from spring to late summer.
- Mulching: Replenish mulch annually to protect roots and improve soil.
Young trees benefit from staking in windy areas.
5. Pruning and Harvesting
Prune lightly after fruiting to encourage new growth. Avoid heavy pruning if you want more fruit. Harvest when fruit falls naturally or feels slightly soft. They do not ripen much off the tree.
6. Pest and Disease Management
Watch out for common issues:
- Guava moth: Use fine netting during flowering.
- Scale and leafrollers: Treat with organic sprays if needed.
- Myrtle rust: Remove affected leaves promptly.
Healthy, well-fed trees resist pests better.
Final Thoughts
Feijoas are a rewarding, easy-care fruit tree perfect for NZ gardens. They can be slipped into the ground as a specimen plant or a productive hedge and will be rewarded with nutritious harvests with the least amount of bother.
For successful growing, simply remember these simple tips: choose the right variety, be sure to plant in free-draining soil, water regularly in dry weather and feed annually. You will have plenty of fruit and lovely flowers, with careful treatment. For expert guidance and quality plants, turn to The Plant Company’s trusted advice.
