Growing Guide: Strawberry Tree

Quick Care Guide

Plant Type: Perennial Evergreen Fruit Tree 
Harvest Season: Year-round in warm climates, most heavy production in the summer.
Mature Size: 20-30 feet tall, 20-25 feet wide
Soil & Moisture: Well-draining, fertile soil; drought-tolerant but benefits from moderate watering
Light Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Growth Rate: Very Fast
Self-fertile: Yes
Zone Hardiness: Outdoors 9-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+; Grown in containers indoors in cooler zones
Propagation: Grown from seeds. Our medium Pot size fruits within 1-2 years. Our X-Large pot sizes are capable of fruiting now.

 

Growing Guide for Yellow Strawberry Tree

Climate and Soil Requirements

  • Climate: The Yellow Strawberry Tree thrives in warm, tropical and subtropical climates and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11. It is highly adaptable and can tolerate drought and poor soils but grows best in warm, sunny conditions. In cooler regions, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during winter.
  • Soil: The tree prefers well-draining, fertile soil but is highly adaptable and can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils. It does well in slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0).

Planting

  1. Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Full sun promotes rapid growth and abundant fruiting.
  2. Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil and mix in compost or organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.
  3. Planting Time: Plant in the spring or summer when temperatures are warm.
  4. Spacing: Space trees 20-25 feet apart to allow for their wide, spreading growth habit.

Watering

  • Drought Tolerant: Although the tree is drought-tolerant, it benefits from regular watering, especially during fruiting. Water deeply once the top 1-2 inches of soil has dried out. Avoid waterlogging the soil, as the tree prefers well-drained conditions.

Sunlight and Fertilizing

  • Full Sun: Provide the tree with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production.
  • Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth. Organic compost can also be added to improve soil fertility.

Pruning and Maintenance

  • Low Maintenance: The Yellow Strawberry Tree requires minimal pruning. Prune away any dead or damaged branches to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth.
  • Container Growing: If growing in a container, ensure the pot has good drainage and use a well-draining potting mix. Container-grown trees may need more frequent watering.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Common Pests: The tree is relatively pest-resistant but may attract fruit flies or aphids. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage infestations.
  • Diseases: The Yellow Strawberry Tree is generally disease-resistant but ensure good drainage to avoid root rot.

Harvesting Yellow Strawberry Tree Fruit

When to Harvest:

  • The fruits are ready to harvest when they turn bright yellow and are slightly soft to the touch. The berries ripen year-round in warm climates and can be picked regularly as they mature. The tree begins producing fruit within 1-2 years after planting.

How to Use:

  • The sweet berries can be eaten fresh, used in jams, jellies, pies, or added to fruit salads. They can also be blended into beverages or used to make syrups.