How many years of planting does it take for a canistel tree to bear fruit?

Canistel, also known as sapodilla, is a perennial plant of the genus Pouteria in the family Sapotaceae. The fruit of the canistel generally ripens around December, and after harvesting it needs to be left for 4-7 days before it can be eaten. Its taste and flavor are very unique, somewhere between sweet potato and durian. So how many years does it take for an artificially planted canistel to bear fruit?

1. How many years does a canistel tree take to bear fruit

Generally speaking, canistel grown from seed takes 3-4 years from seedling emergence to fruit set, while grafted saplings can bear fruit in 2 years. After the canistel sets fruit, it is necessary to fertilize reasonably according to the fertilization pattern of mature trees, and pay attention to the management during the flowering and fruiting periods. The fruit of the canistel is spherical; when unripe it is green, and during the ripening period it changes from yellow-green to orange-yellow. The skin is relatively smooth, and a ripe canistel generally contains 2-4 seeds. The seeds can be used to sow canistel.

The canistel is native to Cuba and the tropics of North America, and is mainly distributed in Central and South America, northeastern India, northern Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and southern China. It was introduced to our country in the 1930s, and cultivation in Guangzhou began in the 1950s. In tropical and southern subtropical regions of China such as Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, Yunnan and Fujian, it is planted in scattered patches.

2. Key points for planting canistel trees

1. Planting preparation: The canistel is a typical tropical fruit, and it should be planted in a sunny place, preferably a relatively flat place with deep, fertile soil, sufficient water, and convenient drainage and irrigation. At the same time, attention should be paid to disinfecting and sterilizing the planting site, which can avoid the occurrence of many diseases and pests.

2. Seedling raising from seed: To raise canistel seedlings, first make a good seedbed. The seedbed should be on high ground, with sufficient light and good drainage. Break the soil into granular form and rake it level, then water the seedbed thoroughly, spread the seeds evenly, and finally cover them with a layer of organic decomposed fertilizer and cover well with plastic film. Usually seedlings emerge in about 8-12 days.

3. Fertilizer and water management: Canistel trees should be fertilized at least once a month, and the amount of fertilizer does not need to be too much. At the same time, attention should also be paid to water management, and branches and leaves should be pruned appropriately, cutting off long and messy branches, which can better promote the growth of side branches. Canistel trees generally take 3 years of planting to bear fruit, so starting from the third year we need to fertilize reasonably according to the fertilization pattern of mature trees.

4. Pest and disease control: The most common pests and diseases of canistel trees are termites and scarab beetles, and targeted pesticides should be used promptly for control. In addition, some birds may come to steal the fruit, and they should be driven away promptly.

That is all for the canistel. Friends who have not yet tried this fruit can go to the market to see whether it is for sale, though generally it is very hard to find it in inland areas.