Pomegranate trees are not only known for their delicious, nutrient-rich fruit, but they are also beautiful ornamental plants. If you don’t have a large garden, don’t worry! Pomegranates can be grown in pots, allowing urban gardeners and those with limited space to enjoy. Here is a step by step guide to growing a pomegranate tree from seeds in a pot:
1. Seed collection :
- Select a ripe pomegranate : Choose a firm fruit, bright in color and free of spots.
- Extract the seeds : Cut the pomegranate in half and gently extract the seeds.
- Clean the seeds : Place the seeds in a sieve and run them through cold water to remove the attached pulp.
2. Preparation of seeds :
- Soak overnight : Place the cleaned seeds in a bowl and cover them with water. Leave them to soak overnight.
- Stratification (optional) : This process involves placing the seeds in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag and refrigerating them for a few weeks. It can increase the germination rate, although pomegranate seeds often germinate without stratification.
3. Planting the seeds :
- Choosing the right pot : A 6- to 8-inch pot with good drainage is ideal to start with.
- Prepare the soil : Opt for well-draining potting soil, which can be purchased or prepared at home with equal parts compost, sand and peat moss.
- Sowing the seeds : Place the seeds in the soil about 1.5 centimeters deep, making sure they are spaced at least one centimeter apart from each other.
- Water lightly : The soil should be moist, not soggy.
4. Caring for the seedlings :
- Sunlight : Make sure the pot receives at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Water : Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Once the seedlings have grown a few centimeters, you can reduce the frequency.
- Protection : Although pomegranates can tolerate some cold, it is best to protect young plants from harsh temperatures.
5. Transplanting and pruning :
- Size matters : When your tree outgrows its initial pot, move it to a larger one or directly to the ground, if space allows.
- Pruning : Once the tree has reached a height of around 30cm, it is worth considering pruning to encourage branching. This will provide a more solid base and encourage better fruiting in future years.
6. Fertilization :
- Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, preferably organic. Start fertilizing in spring and continue throughout the growing season, but avoid overfertilizing as it could hinder fruiting.
7. Potential challenges :
- Pests : Keep an eye out for aphids, whiteflies and scale insects.
- Diseases : Pomegranate trees are relatively hardy, but may occasionally suffer from fungal infections. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering.
8. Collection :
Patience is key! It may take a few years for your tree to bear fruit, especially if grown from seed. But once they appear, before picking them, wait until the pomegranates reach a deep color and sound slightly hollow when tapped.
Conclusion :
Growing a pomegranate tree from seeds in a pot is a pleasant undertaking that even those with little space can undertake. With patience and proper care, you will be rewarded with eye-catching foliage and mouth-watering fruit. Happy gardening!