Barbados Acerola Southern Cherry (Malpighia emarginata) TC Plant Tree-4-8 inches

Description

Barbados Acerola Southern Cherry (Malpighia emarginata) TC Plant Tree-4-8 inches
YOU WILL RECEIVE ONE SMALL TISSUE CULTURE PLANT/PLUG. THE ROOT BALL WILL BE WRAPPED IN DAMP PAPER TOWEL AND PLASTIC WRAP FOR SHIPMENT.
Not only is the Barbados Cherry tasty, but it is also rich in vitamins! When the plant starts to get full of these bright red berries, it looks really beautiful in the garden! Let’s have a look at all the information you need on How to Grow Barbados Cherry!
Botanical Name: Malpighia emarginata
USDA Zones: 9 – 11
Caring for Barbados Cherry
Location
The plant does really well in plenty of bright and indirect light. If you are growing them in pots, keep them at a wet lit location. For gardens, choose a spot that gets dappled sunlight. Avoid keeping the plant in the harsh sun.
Soil
Rich and well-draining soil is best for growing Barbados Cherry. Barbados cherry tree prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil. Add lots of organic matter in the soil during the time of planting.
Water
Water the plant thoroughly and wait till the top 1-2 inches of soil goes dry before the next watering schedule. Depending upon the climate, you may have to water the plant frequently or less. Do not keep the soil soggy as it will cause root rot.
Fertilizer
Apply citrus fertilizer, once you start to see growth. Alternatively, you can also use 8-3-9  during the growing season. Follow the manufacturer’s directions with regard to the amount and timing of applying the fertilizer.
Mulching
Spread a layer of 2 inches of mulch in a diameter of 3 feet around the tree. Straw, grass clippings or bark can be used to help retain moisture and keep the roots cooler in the summer heat. Keep the mulch at least 3 inches away from the trunk of the tree so that it does not hold up against the softwood and inflict rot.
Pruning
Prune the tree in fall, after the harvest, to give it the desired shape. You can cut dead, damaged or diseased branches off at any time.
Pests and diseases
The most serious disease of Barbados cherry is a root-knot nematode. It can also be attacked by leaf spot, brown rot, and powdery mildew. Pests that might attack it are aphids, scales, borers, and whiteflies.
Harvesting and Storing
Pick the cherries when they turn to a bright shade of red from yellow.
During the fruiting season, the growth will be plenty. Harvest timely to save them falling off the tree.
The cherries can be kept for 3-4 days.