Cultural Information & Care Sheet
Jamaican Cherry - Muntingia calabura
Light:
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Partial especially in summer when young
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Let it "grow into" full sun
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Shade needed most on our days over 90°
Temperature:
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Young plants are killed at 32°
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Established trees can withstand 29°
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Compost heavy to retain moisture, and protect from heat and cold.
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No chill hours needed
Size:
25' - 30' tall
Growth Rate:
Very Fast in spring and fall
grows best between 60-90°
Container Grown:
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Yes
PH:
5.6-8.5 acidic to slightly acidic.
Watering:
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Water frequently until established. Once to twice a week after that.
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Basin watering is recommended, filling the basin two-three times a week in summer months as it encourages deeper roots.
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Water very little in the dormant "cold" winter months, moderately in spring and fall & heavily in summer.
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Water in the winter just enough to keep the roots moist, Winter over-watering can kill the tree
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Mulch heavily to help maintain moisture
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NOT drought tolerant
Fertilizer:
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Fertilize heavy with compost out to the edge of the tree drip line
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Fertilize monthly with compost during the growing season
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Plant on a mound to aid in drainage and the ability to flush salts from the soil
Pruning:
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Not necessary.
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Prune off old or dead branches as needed
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To shape or reduce height to a harvest-able size.
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Never prune more than 20-30%.
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Pruning will reduce fruit production
Comments:
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Fruits in 1.5-2 years.
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Self fruitfull
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Lifespan of 30 years
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Can grow 13' tall in 24 months