Ultimate Guide to Growing Taiwan Pink Guava: How to Plant, Prune, Care, and Harvest

Taiwan Pink Guava, also known as Psidium guajava ‘Pink Supreme,’ is a popular fruit variety with a delectable taste, captivating aroma, and eye-catching pink flesh. This tropical fruit is delicious and packed with numerous health benefits. It is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fibre, making it a popular choice worldwide for gardeners and fruit lovers. Below we learn how to grow, prune, care for, and harvest Taiwan Pink Guava.

Guide to Growing Taiwan Pink Guava

Selecting the Right Location

Taiwan Pink Guava thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, requiring plenty of sunlight to grow and produce fruit. Choose a spot with 6–8 hours of direct sunshine. Ensure the site has well-draining soil, as guava trees are susceptible to root rot if the ground remains too wet.

Soil Preparation

Guava trees can adapt to various soil types but prefer sandy loam or loam soils with a pH between 5.0 and 7.0. Add compost or old manure to the planting ground to increase drainage. This will also provide essential nutrients to support the tree’s growth.

Planting the Tree

A grafted Taiwan Pink Guava tree will produce fruit quicker than seeds. To plant trees at the same depth as their nursery pots, dig a hole that is twice as broad as the root ball. Press down gently to eliminate air bubbles after filling the hole with soil. To avoid weeds and retain moisture, water and mulch a tree after planting.

Caring for Taiwan Pink Guava

Watering

Guava trees have moderate water requirements, but it is essential to provide consistent moisture during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry between thorough waterings. Reduce the frequency during winter, as overwatering can lead to root rot.

Fertilization

A balanced, slow-release fertiliser should be applied to your Taiwan Pink Guava tree every two months throughout the growth season. Additionally, supplement with organic matter such as compost or aged manure. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, leading to excessive foliage growth and reduced fruit production.

Pest and Disease Control

Taiwan Pink Guava is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but some common issues include fruit flies, aphids, and scale insects. Check the tree for infestations and treat it with pesticides or alternative cures. To prevent fungal diseases, ensure proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

Pruning Taiwan Pink Guava

When to Prune

Before new growth starts, prune in late winter or early spring. This promotes a strong tree foundation and improved fruit yield.

Pruning Techniques

Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Thin out overgrown branches to promote airflow and sunlight. Crossing or rubbing branches may invite bugs and diseases. Selectively remove branches to produce a vase shape and a balanced canopy.

Harvesting Taiwan Pink Guava

When to Harvest

Taiwan Pink Guava typically starts bearing fruit within 2 to 4 years of planting, depending on the tree’s growth and care. The fruit is ready to harvest when it changes colour slightly, becomes softer, and emits a sweet aroma. This will usually happen approximately 4 to 6 months after flowering.

How to Harvest

To harvest Taiwan Pink Guava, gently twist or clip the fruit from the tree using pruning shears, not damaging the branch. Handle the fruit gently to avoid bruising, which can lead to premature spoilage.

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Post-Harvest Care

After harvesting, wash the fruit in clean water to remove dirt or debris. Guava can be fresh or processed into jams, jellies, or juice. Store unripe guavas at room temperature to ripen, and once ripe, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Additional Tips for Growing Taiwan Pink Guava

Wind Protection

Guava trees can be sensitive to strong winds, which can cause damage to branches and fruit. If your location is prone to high winds, consider planting your tree near a windbreak or building to provide some protection.

Cold Protection

Although Taiwan Pink Guava can tolerate brief cold temperatures, it is not suited for areas with prolonged freezes. Grow your guava tree inside in cooler climes.

Container Growing

Taiwan Pink Guava can be cultivated indoors or in containers. Choose a container at least 18-24 inches in diameter with ample drainage holes. Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix and ensure the tree receives adequate sunlight, water, and fertiliser.

Training Your Taiwan Pink Guava Tree

Training for a Strong Scaffold

Training your Taiwan Pink Guava tree while it’s young is essential for developing a strong and productive tree structure. Encourage a single, central leader by selecting the strongest, straightest vertical stem and removing competing stems. As the tree grows, encourage the development of three to four primary scaffold branches evenly spaced around the trunk and angled outward at roughly 45-60 degrees.

Staking Young Trees

Newly planted Taiwan Pink Guava trees may require staking to provide support and stability, especially in windy areas. Insert a sturdy stake into the ground a few inches away from the tree trunk and secure the trunk to the stake using a soft, flexible material like a tree tie or strips of cloth. Ensure the tie is snug but not too tight, allowing room for the trunk to expand. As the tree matures and gains strength, remove the stake.

Cost and Yield of Taiwan Pink Guava

Home gardeners and professional fruit farmers may cultivate Taiwan Pink Guava affordably. The initial cost of a grafted sapling, soil amendments, and fertilisers is relatively low compared to the potential yield and returns. A healthy, well-maintained guava tree can produce between 50 and 100 pounds of fruit per year, depending on the tree’s age and growing conditions. Following proper care and management practices, you can expect a substantial yield, investing in growing Taiwan Pink Guava as a rewarding and fruitful endeavour.

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Conclusion

Growing Taiwan Pink Guava is a rewarding endeavour for gardeners in tropical and subtropical regions. By following the guidelines presented in this article, you can successfully plant, prune, care for, and harvest this delicious and nutritious fruit. Your guava tree will provide you with a bountiful harvest for years with proper care and attention.