Cultural Information & Care Sheet

Jamaican Cherry - Muntingia calabura 

Light:

• Partial especially in summer when young

• Let it "grow into" full sun

• Shade needed most on our days over 90°

Temperature:

• Young plants are killed at 32°

• Established trees can withstand 29°

• Compost heavy to retain moisture, and protect from heat and cold.

• No chill hours needed

Size:

25' - 30' tall

Growth Rate:

Very Fast in spring and fall

grows best between 60-90°

Container Grown:

• Yes

PH:

5.6-8.5 acidic to slightly acidic.

Watering:

• Water frequently until established. Once to twice a week after that. 

• Basin watering is recommended, filling the basin two-three times a week in summer months as it encourages deeper roots. 

• Water very little in the dormant "cold" winter months, moderately in spring and fall & heavily in summer. 

• Water in the winter just enough to keep the roots moist, Winter over-watering can kill the tree

• Mulch heavily to help maintain moisture

• NOT drought tolerant

Fertilizer:

• Fertilize heavy with compost out to the edge of the tree drip line

• Fertilize monthly with compost during the growing season

• Plant on a mound to aid in drainage and the ability to flush salts from the soil 

Pruning:

• Not necessary. 

• Prune off old or dead branches as needed

• To shape or reduce height to a harvest-able size. 

• Never prune more than 20-30%. 

• Pruning will reduce fruit production

Comments:

• Fruits in 1.5-2 years. 

• Self fruitfull

• Lifespan of 30 years

• Can grow 13' tall in 24 months

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