Pomegranate Trees

The pomegranate, one of the world's most ancient fruits, has had a long history. Although it is thought to have originated in Persia, research shows that cultivation spread quickly throughout the Mediterranean and extended to Arabia, Afghanistan, India and China, where it was called the “Chinese apple”. It is believed that the Spanish first brought pomegranates to their settlement at St. Augustine, Florida, in the 1500s. From Florida, the plants were carried north and west. These fruit were also once considered a fruit for royalty.

Pomegranates thrive in hot, dry climates. Unlike most fruit trees, they can tolerate brackish water, so you can plant a tree in a warm corner in a coastal garden. Most pomegranate plants begin producing fruits three to four years after planting. While most cultivars are limited to USDA zones 8 through 10, although the "Russian" series can be grown in USDA zones 6 and up.

It’s best to plant these trees in the Spring or Fall. Pomegranates need plenty of sun to thrive and produce fruit, (an area that gets at least 6 hours of direct sun a day). Good drainage is important for pomegranate trees, but they tolerate almost any soil, even poor or alkaline ones.

Pomegranate trees are generally easy to care for. Newly planted trees need to be watered more often until established and they should be watered deeply during the heat of the summer.

For Fertilizer, they should be covered in 1-2 inches of compost or organic fertilizer (well decomposed manure) 2-3 times per year. Over the compost, add a 4-inch layer of mulch. During the growing season, feed each pomegranate tree with compost tea or a balanced 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer every two weeks. Water every seven to 10 days, applying 1 inch of water to each tree.

For pruning, it is recommended to shorten shoots for the first three years to encourage a strong, sturdy plant. The best time is after they have dropped all their leaves, just before they begin to leaf out in the spring. Pomegranate trees can also be pruned lightly throughout the year. Thin pomegranate fruit to 1 fruit about every 6 inches. Thinning the fruit promotes large fruit and prevents limb damage from heavy fruit.

Pomegranate trees begin to yield fruit about 3 years after planting. More mature plants hold  onto the flowers and fruits better (less drop). Conditions that adversely affect yield in older trees include excess watering, poor drainage, over-fertilization, and not enough sunlight. Also watch for pests and signs of diseases. Pomegranates may be infected with fungal diseases. To help reduce infection, avoid wetting the foliage, and remove damaged leaves and branches.

Cross-pollination is not required with pomegranate trees, but planting more than 1 tree (even the same type) can increase fruit production.