Grow Your Own Tropical Treat: Atemoya - Planting Guide for Custard Apple Success!
ATEMOYA FACTS
Atamoya is an evergreen tree reaching 30' in height. It bears a fruit weighing between 8 to 32 ounces, 3 to 5 inches in length. The pulp is white or creamy white with a custard-like consistency and sweet, pleasant flavor. Weighs between 10 and 60 pounds. The time from flowering to fruit maturity is between 100 and 120 days. The primary fruit season is fall and winter. Atamoya is native to Central America and the Antilles, but is grown in tropical and subtropical locations throughout the world, including Florida.
HOW TO PLANT
Choose a Suitable Location:
Select a planting site that receives full sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. Atemoya trees thrive in warm climates and require well-drained soil. Avoid areas prone to waterlogging or standing water.
Prepare the Soil:
Before planting, prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of at least 12 to 18 inches. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve soil fertility and drainage. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH level between 6.5 and 7.0.
Dig the Planting Hole:
Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of the Atemoya tree. This will give the roots plenty of room to spread out as they grow. If planting multiple trees, space them at least 15 to 20 feet apart to allow for proper growth and airflow.
Planting the Tree:
Carefully remove the Atemoya tree from its container, being mindful not to disturb the roots excessively. Place the tree in the center of the planting hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Backfill the hole with the excavated soil, gently firming it around the base of the tree to remove air pockets.
Watering:
Immediately after planting, thoroughly water the Atemoya tree to help settle the soil around the roots. Continue to water the tree regularly, especially during the establishment period. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogged conditions.
Mulching:
Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded bark, around the base of the tree to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Leave a gap between the mulch and the trunk to prevent moisture-related issues and pest infestations.
Support and Staking (if necessary):
If the Atemoya tree is tall or prone to leaning, provide support by staking it with a sturdy stake placed on the windward side of the tree. Use soft ties to secure the tree to the stake, allowing some flexibility for natural movement.
Maintenance:
Monitor the Atemoya tree regularly for signs of pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies. Prune any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to promote airflow and maintain a healthy tree structure. Follow a regular fertilization schedule using a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for growth and fruit production.
PLANT CARE
Water at a rate of 8 to 10 gallons, 3 to 5 times a week the first month after planting, then slowly taper off, watering afterward at signs of wilt or during drought.
At planting, fertilize with a slow-release product, such as Osmocote, and one month afterward apply a 6-6-6 or 8-8-8 fertilizer with micro and macro nutrients each six months from February through October.
Regularly check foliage, limbs, trunks, and fruits for insect pests and diseases and contact nursery professionals or county agricultural extension agents for identification of pests and recommended treatments.
