How to Plant Siniguelas Tree

Siniguelas tree, also known as Spanish plum or Spondias purpurea, is a flowering tree that is native to the Americas, but is also commonly grown in Southeast Asian countries like the Philippines. If you’re interested in planting a siniguelas tree in your backyard or property, here are some tips to guide you.

1. Choose a suitable location

Siniguelas tree thrives in warm, humid climates with plenty of sunlight. It can grow in various soil types, but prefers well-drained soil with a pH level of 5.0 to 6.5. Make sure that the location you choose has enough space to accommodate the mature size of the tree, which can grow up to 30 feet tall and equally wide.

2. Prepare the soil

Before planting Siniguelas tree, it’s important to prepare the soil to ensure that it has enough nutrients for the young seedling to survive and grow into a healthy tree. Till the soil to a depth of at least 18 inches and remove all rocks, roots, and other debris. Mix in organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and structure. You can also add some fertilizers that are high in potassium and phosphorus, but low in nitrogen, which can encourage the development of roots and fruits.

3. Plant the seedling

Once the soil is ready, you can go ahead and plant the siniguelas seedling. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball of the seedling. Gently remove the seedling from its container and loosen the roots if they’re tightly packed. Place the seedling in the center of the hole and backfill it with the prepared soil. Make sure that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Water the seedling thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.

4. Provide proper care

To ensure that the siniguelas tree grows and bears fruit, you need to provide it with proper care. Water the tree regularly, especially during the dry season, but avoid overwatering, as it can cause the roots to rot. Apply mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune the tree regularly to remove dead, diseased, or overcrowded branches, and to maintain its shape and size. Fertilize the tree every 2 to 3 months with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

5. Wait for the fruit

It may take 3 to 4 years before the siniguelas tree starts bearing fruit, but when it does, you’ll be rewarded with sweet, juicy, and slightly tart plums that are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Harvest the fruit when they’re ripe, which is when their color changes from green to yellow or reddish-brown, depending on the variety.

In conclusion, planting a siniguelas tree requires some effort and patience, but it’s definitely worth it in the end. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy the beauty and bounty of this wonderful tree for years to come.