When to Plant Feijoa Trees NZ

Feijoa trees, also known as pineapple guava, are a popular fruit tree in New Zealand. With their sweet and tangy fruit, feijoa trees make a great addition to any backyard orchard. But when is the best time to plant feijoa trees in New Zealand?

The Best Time to Plant Feijoa Trees

The best time to plant feijoa trees in New Zealand is during the winter months, from June to August. This is because feijoa trees prefer cooler weather, and planting them during the winter allows them to establish their roots before the warmer months arrive.

Planting your feijoa tree during the winter also ensures that it will have plenty of access to moisture during the establishment period. The cooler, wetter weather of winter is perfect for new trees, as it helps to keep the soil moist and prevents the tree from drying out before its roots have had a chance to grow deep enough to access water from the soil.

Choosing the Right Site

When planting your feijoa tree, it is important to choose a site that receives plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. Feijoa trees do not tolerate waterlogged soil, and so it is important to avoid planting them in low-lying areas that are prone to flooding.

Additionally, feijoa trees prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH of between 5.5 and 6.5. If your soil is too alkaline, you may need to amend it with sulfur or another acidifying agent to ensure optimal growing conditions for your feijoa tree.

Planting Your Feijoa Tree

When planting your feijoa tree, dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the pot that it came in. Mix some compost or well-rotted manure into the soil, and then place your tree in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the ground.

Backfill the hole with soil, and then water your tree well. Mulch around the base of the tree with organic mulch, such as bark or straw, to help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weed growth.

Caring for Your Feijoa Tree

Once your feijoa tree is planted, it is important to care for it properly in order to ensure that it grows healthy and strong. Water your tree regularly during the establishment period, and then reduce watering to once or twice a week once it is well-established.

Fertilize your feijoa tree twice a year, once in early spring and again in late summer, with a balanced fertilizer that is high in potassium. This will help to encourage fruit production and ensure that your tree has the nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy.

Prune your feijoa tree regularly to remove any dead or damaged wood, and to promote a healthy, open canopy. Feijoa trees are prone to overcrowding, so it is important to remove any crossing or rubbing branches to prevent disease and maintain good airflow through the canopy.

In Conclusion

If you are looking to add a feijoa tree to your backyard, winter is the best time to plant it in New Zealand. Be sure to choose a sunny, well-drained site with slightly acidic soil, and care for your tree properly with regular watering, fertilization, and pruning. With proper care, your feijoa tree will provide you with delicious fruit for years to come.