Growing Exotic Sugar Apples
- Seeds take around 30 days or longer to germinate
- Ready to harvest from mid-summer through fall
The sugar apple, also known as the custard apple or the sweetsop, is a tropical fruit that is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and Mexico. It is known for its sweet, custard-like flesh and is a popular fruit in many tropical countries.
Growing sugar apples requires a warm, humid climate as it is a tropical fruit. It is also a relatively sensitive plant and requires protection from frost, high winds and dry conditions. The ideal temperature for growth is between 60-85°F (15-30°C). In order to achieve this temperature, it may need to be grown in a greenhouse or indoors in a bright room during cold weather, and planted outside when conditions are warm and sunny.
In terms of soil requirements, sugar apples prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0, as the tree will not tolerate alkaline soil. It is important to amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to ensure that your trees have the nutrients they need to thrive.
When it comes to planting sugar apples, it is best to use young grafted trees that are 2-3 years old. The tree should be planted at the same level as it was in the container, and the roots should be well covered by soil. Proper spacing is also important for healthy growth, so be sure to space the trees at least 20-25 feet apart.
Sugar apples also require regular watering and fertilization. The trees need about an inch of water per week, and it is best to water them deeply and infrequently, rather than giving them a little water every day. Additionally, mulching with straw or other organic materials can help keep the soil moist and suppress weeds. As for fertilization, it is best to fertilize the tree twice a year with a balanced fertilizer, once in the spring and once in the fall.
The sugar apple fruit, which is a green, round or conical shaped fruit, and grows to about 4-6 inches in diameter. The fruit is ready to harvest when the skin turns yellowish-green, and gives slightly when pressed. The fruit should be picked by hand, taking care not to bruise or damage the fruit.
When it comes to taste, sugar apples have a unique and distinct flavor. They are sweet, creamy and has a texture similar to that of a pear. The fruit has a very fragrant aroma, and is often described as having a combination of flavors including coconut, banana, pineapple, and vanilla.
Sugar apples are a versatile fruit and can be eaten fresh, used in desserts, and also used as a topping for ice cream, cereal, and yogurt. They can also be used in cooking, such as in curries, stews, and jams.
In conclusion, growing sugar apples is a challenging task that requires a warm and humid climate and regular watering and fertilization. The fruit has a distinct sweet, creamy and fragrant flavor which is versatile in cooking and eating. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious sugar apples from your own trees.
