How Close Do Pineapple Guava Trees Need to Be Planted?

Pineapple Guavas, also known as Feijoas, are a delightful addition to any garden, with their versatile uses in cooking, and their attractive flowers and foliage. But if you're considering planting one or more in your yard, you may be wondering how close they need to be planted to each other, to get the best results. In this article, we'll explore some of the factors to consider when deciding on the spacing for Pineapple Guava trees.

Growth Habits of Pineapple Guava Trees

Pineapple Guava trees are relatively slow-growing, with an average height of around 10-15 feet at maturity. They tend to grow in an upright, pyramidal shape, with multiple trunks arising from the base. Because the trees are slow-growing and don't have an extensive root system, they can be planted closer together than some other trees, without competing for nutrients or water.

Spacing Considerations

When considering how close to plant Pineapple Guava trees, there are some factors to take into account:

Tree Size: If you're planting young trees, they may be small enough to be spaced closer together initially. However, it's important to consider how large the trees will eventually grow, and plan accordingly. If you're planting mature trees, you'll need to space them further apart to accommodate their size.

Root Systems: Pineapple Guava trees have shallow, spreading roots, so you'll need to make sure they have enough space to expand without competing with each other. If you plant them too close together, the roots may tangle and choke each other, leading to stunted growth or other issues.

Sunlight: Pineapple Guava trees thrive in full sun, so you'll need to make sure they're spaced far enough apart to avoid shading each other. If the trees are too close together, the foliage may become too dense, leading to poor fruiting or other issues.

Recommended Spacing for Pineapple Guava Trees

The ideal spacing for Pineapple Guava trees depends on several factors, including the size of the trees and the layout of your garden. However, as a general guideline, you should space young trees at least 10-12 feet apart, and mature trees at least 15-20 feet apart. This will give the trees enough room to grow and develop without competing with each other, and will allow for optimal sunlight exposure and air circulation.

Pineapple Guava Trees as Hedges

If you're planting Pineapple Guava trees as a hedge, you may be able to space them closer together than if you were planting them as individual trees. When planted as a hedge, Pineapple Guava trees can be spaced as close as 6-8 feet apart, which will create a dense, attractive screen. However, you'll need to make sure to prune the trees regularly to maintain their shape and prevent overcrowding.

Conclusion

Pineapple Guava trees are a beautiful and versatile addition to any garden, but it's important to consider their growth habits and spacing requirements before planting multiple trees. By spacing the trees appropriately and providing optimal growing conditions, you can ensure that your Pineapple Guava trees thrive and produce delicious fruit for years to come.