Growing Guava in Australia

Guava tree care is about understanding guava trees and growing them for production of their awesome tasty fruit. There are 3 different types of guava, the tropical guava (Psidium guajava); the strawberry guava (Psidium lucidum) and the pineapple guava (Feijoa Sellowiana).

The guava originated from Mexico. Subsequently, it has spread from Central America to other parts of the world, including Australia.

The guava tree can bloom year-round. However, spring is the main time for flowering and the fruit are usually ready 90 to 150 days after the first bloom.

Guava Tree Care Outdoor

In the tropics it makes sense to grow your guava tree outside, where nature can provide most of its care needs, soil, sun and water.

Guava Tree Height and Width

Guava Tree Pruning 

Without pruning a guava tree will easily get out of control. So pruning is needed to keep the tree a manageable size. Hence done properly, it allows you to keep the tree at an accessible height for picking the fruit. In addition, people may prune to restore tree vigour and to control pests and disease.

Guava Tree Care Propagation

Growing Guava in Pots

If you have decided to grow in pots, make sure you give your guava a good deep watering at least once or twice a week. Feed regularly from spring to autumn with an organic based pelletised plant food to promote healthy growth and lots of flowers and fruit.

Guava Tree Care in Pots

Find a container that is at least 50cm (20in) across and just as deep. Make sure the container has drainage holes. Place your pot in full sunlight. When growing in pots you must water weekly.

Guava Tree Care Indoors

Growing a guava tree indoors requires a warm, sunny spot and a large container with good drainage. Use rich, well-draining soil and water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.

Ensure your guava gets at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily, or supplement with grow lights. Prune to maintain shape and size, and feed the plant with a balanced fertiliser every few months. Proper airflow and occasional misting can help mimic its tropical environment and prevent pests.

Guava Tree Growing Conditions

Firstly, the guava tree should be planted in a sunny spot in your garden. It will grow in most places, as long as it has well-draining soil. While a rich soil is perfect, the plant is forgiving of poor soil.

Hence, guava trees placed in a sunny location will thrive in the tropics. They can produce guava after 2 years and may continue to do so for another 40. This tropical fruit also grows well in the sub-tropics.

Fertilising

The guava tree is fairly low maintenance. They do not need heavy fertilising, so choose an organic, balanced fertiliser and only apply every six weeks during its peak growing season. There is no need to fertilise during the winter months, especially if you are living in a cool climate.

Guava tree water requirements

While young, the ‘in ground’ guava tree should be watered every 2 or 3 weeks. In a tropical wet-season, your tree can handle torrential downpours and often at this time of year there is no need for additional watering. Indeed additional watering during a heavy wet season could cause the roots to rot.

Pests and Diseases

Pests that can damage your guava include nematodes, caterpillars, mealybugs, weevils and whiteflies.

One tip to protect trees from insects is to prune any branches that are touching walls, buildings or the ground. After all, this will make it harder for insects to access the tree.

In addition, the regular application of ‘white oil’ can help address some of these pests. So white oil is an effective organic pesticide that you can make at home.

How long does Guava Fruit take to Grow?

Guava trees typically take 2 to 4 years to start bearing fruit when grown from seed. If propagated from cuttings or grafts, they can fruit sooner, often within 1 to 2 years. After flowering, guava fruit usually takes 90 to 150 days to mature, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Regular care, including proper watering, fertilisation, and pruning, helps ensure healthy fruit production.

How to Grow Guava Tree Faster?

Plenty of water and organic fertiliser will help you speed up the growth rate of your tree.

Guava Benefits

Guava is commonly eaten raw. You can enjoy it sliced or simply eat it like an apple. It can also be sliced and served with cream as a dessert, so guava tree care, is well worth it!

The guava fruit offers many health benefits. It is rich in vitamins A, B, and C.  In addition, studies support the benefits of guava tree leaf extracts, which are even taken by some as dietary supplements.

Fibre

Dietary fibre in guava supports a healthy gut microbiome. After all gut health is important for digestion, weight gain, cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and even immunity.

Immune System  

Vitamin C is known to help prevent common infections and pathogens. Indeed, the guava contains almost twice the vitamin C of oranges.

Antioxidants

Guava leaf extract has been found to have antioxidant properties that can help to lower blood pressure by expanding blood vessels. According to some studies, these antioxidants may also help to reduce the risk of degenerative brain diseases, inflammation, heart disease, and cancer. If you’re looking for a natural way to support your overall health, guava leaf extract may be worth considering.

Finally, thank you for reading and all the best with your guava tree care.

Other Tropical Fruits

• Black Sapote
• Custard Apple
• Dragon Fruit
• Grumichama
• Jaboticaba
• Kumquat Tree
• Mamey Sapote
• Mulberries
• Natal Plum
• Passion Fruit
• Paw Paw Tree
• Rambutan
• Star Apple
• Watermelon

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