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One of the most widely planted Annona trees produces custard apples (Annona squamosa). Depending on where you get them, they go by many names, such as Sweetsop Sharifa, sugar apple, sitafal, ata, aath and more.
The sugar apple is a fruit with a heart shape. It is the most frequently consumed portion of the sugar apple tree and grows on thick, woody stalks. Its tough, thick exterior is coated in scaly, greenish skin. When the fruit ripens, the knobby segments on the outside split to reveal the inner part, making it easy to recognise. Growing them is always a pleasure.
Its tree is indigenous to South America and the West Indies. In many Asian nations, including China, India, and the Philippines, it is also highly well-liked. Learn how to grow them!
Tips To Keep In Mind While Growing Custard Fruit
Repotting
When your plant arrives from a nursery, repot it in a pot that is just a little bit bigger than the bucket, which needs to be properly punctured. Steer clear of pot coverings, which hinder the drainage of leftover water and promote the growth of fungi. Avoid using garden soil or acidic soils like heather and instead choose a fine potting soil, preferably with sand or perlite added to lighten the substrate.
Watering
Moderate watering involves giving the entire root ball a lot of water but waiting until the substrate has completely dried before giving it another watering (put your finger in the soil and don't water as long as you detect wetness). A water shortage can help your plant recover more quickly than too much. Static water in the leaf armpit encourages cryptogamic infections; therefore, always water the base of the plant rather than misting it. Place bowls of water close by (for instance, over radiators) if your atmosphere is too dry so that evaporation can moisten it.
Indoor Planting
During summer, you must remove your plant; it thrives in full sun. In winter, it needs to be kept in a chilly room—one that isn't heated yet and isn't frost-free. When temperatures are low, it is afraid of too much humidity; therefore, watering is dramatically reduced. Because plants adjust their leaves to their surroundings, which shouldn't be changed frequently, it is important to take them out during pleasant weather and bring them back in when the weather becomes chilly. When plants are moved or brought indoors, they frequently lose their leaves. Don't panic; your plant will adjust and produce new leaves as needed.
Outdoor Planting
You can put your plant in full ground if your environment permits it; full sun is advised. However, to properly strengthen it, we recommend that you grow it in a pot the first year and expose it to heat during the first winter. Plant it in light, draining soil between the end of May, when frost is least likely to occur, and the end of August. Don't be afraid to add sand and fine potting soil if needed. The lowest temperatures listed are for a mature plant, so be cautious. You also need to consider the wind, which makes the cold feel more noticeable, and the soil's ability to retain water, which might cause the roots to rot if it doesn't drain well enough.
Pest Control
The most effective method of controlling aphids or other pests attacking your plants is by hand. After changing their soil and manually removing as many unwanted items as possible, give your plants a good watering to eliminate any potential eggs. Use a solution of liquid black soap and water to mist them, paying particular attention to the underside of the leaves. Repeat the procedure multiple times, separated by a few days. Take them outside while the weather is nice because the rain, sun, and wind will kill most aggressors!
The most popular of the Annonas, the custard apple tree can withstand drought and reaches a height of 6 metres. The sweet fruit can be added to drinks or consumed raw. Keep exploring!
