Know before you grow:

Up-Potting

It is very important that you up-pot your plant to a larger container as soon as possible when it arrives. Your plant's new container should have a couple of drainage holes, and should be at least a couple gallons larger than the nursery pot. Check out our up-potting video for detailed instructions on how to ensure a happy healthy new home for your plant.

Pollination

All our varieties of guava are self-fertile, meaning that they don't need a partner plant to produce fruit. That being said, all fruit-bearing plants have more abundant harvests when they have a friend blooming at the same time.

Let the sun shine

Sunlight

Guavas need a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for good growth and fruit production. In general, the more sunlight your loquat tree receives, the better its growth and fruit production will be.

Overheating

Guavas are generally quite heat-tolerant and can withstand high temperatures without overheating. In fact, they thrive in warm climates and are often grown in subtropical regions. In temperatures above 100°, make sure it gets enough water.

Get this girl a drink!

Watering

Guava plants should be watered deeply about every other week. Water until the soil is saturated and water comes out of the drainage holes. Let the container dry until the soil is dry to the touch 1 inche down. They also thrive in humid environment, so consider misting your plant if your area is experiencing a dry spell.

Fertilizer

Guava typically benefit from fertilization every two months during the growing season (from early spring until fall). Your plant should have come with a soluable fast-acting plant food, which you can mix in to the water you give your plant.

Chill Out

Overwintering (down to 32°F)

So long as your winter temperatures stay above freezing, your guava tree will be happy to remain outdoors during winter.

Overwintering (below to 32°F)

Below freezing temperatures, your plant should be protected from the cold. Bring your guava indoors, and if possible, keep it in someplace cool, but still with light. An unheated garage would be great, or your livingroom near a window if you must.

Yummy Stuff

Ripening and Harvest

Guavas ripen in August. The best way to tell if a guava is ripe and ready to be harvested is to look at its color and feel its texture. A ripe guava will have a bright, vibrant color, ranging from green to yellow, depending on the variety. It should also feel slightly soft to the touch, with some give when you press gently on the fruit.

Pests and Disease

Your fruit isn't just delicious for you, lots of other critters would be happy to get their hands on your hard work. Pests and diseases vary greatly depending on region, so we suggest you take advantage of your local resources. If you can't determine what is ailing your plant by googling the symptoms, give a call to your local county agricultural extension office.