Introduction
Feijoa sellowiana, also known as the pineapple guava, is an evergreen shrub or small tree that belongs to the myrtle family (Myrtaceae). Native to South America, this plant has been introduced to various parts of the world, including New Zealand, Australia, and the United States.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as feijoa or pineapple guava due to its edible fruit that tastes like a combination of pineapple, guava, and strawberry. In its native land, it is known as 'goiaba-serrana,' 'guayaba del Brasil,' or 'palo colorado.'
Appearance
The feijoa plant can reach up to 15 feet in height and width. It has a short trunk and a spreading canopy with oval-shaped leaves that are about 1 inch wide and 4 inches long. The leaves are leathery with a grayish-green color on the upper surface and a pale-green or silvery color on the underside.
The plant produces stunning flowers that are about 1.5 inches in diameter and have four large petals. The flowers are white or pale-pink with showy red stamens, which provide a striking contrast. The fruit mature in late summer or autumn and are about 2 to 3 inches in length and have a greenish-gray skin. They have sweet and tangy pulp with small, edible seeds that are reminiscent of kiwifruit.
Uses
The feijoa plant is primarily grown for its delicious fruit. The ripe fruit can be eaten fresh or used in various culinary applications, such as jams, jellies, desserts, and alcoholic beverages. The fruit is also high in vitamin C, vitamin B, and minerals such as calcium and potassium.
In addition to its edible uses, the feijoa plant is also grown as an ornamental plant, thanks to its showy and fragrant flowers. The plant makes an excellent choice for hedges, screens, and windbreaks. Its dense foliage and drought tolerance make it ideal for hot and dry environments.
Some people also believe that parts of the feijoa plant have medicinal properties. For instance, the leaves and bark can be brewed to make tea that is believed to help alleviate cold and influenza symptoms. The fruit is also believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Light Requirements
Feijoa sellowiana requires full sunlight in order to grow and produce fruit. However, it can tolerate partial shade in hotter regions where full sun exposure may be too intense.
Temperature Requirements
Feijoa sellowiana can withstand temperatures as low as 15°F (-9°C) and as high as 100°F (38°C) but the optimal temperature range for growth is between 60°F (16°C) and 80°F (27°C). In colder regions, the plant may require protection from frost during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
Feijoa sellowiana prefers well-draining soils that are slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and have good nutrient content. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soils including loamy, sandy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-draining.
Cultivation Methods for Feijoa Sellowiana
Feijoa sellowiana, also known as pineapple guava, is a versatile plant that can adapt to a wide range of soil and environmental conditions. It is best to grow this plant in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. The plant requires full sun exposure to produce the best-tasting fruit. Feijoa sellowiana can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or grafting.
Watering Needs for Feijoa Sellowiana
Feijoa sellowiana requires moderate watering during its growing period. The plant's roots are shallow, so it is advisable to water it twice a week during the summer season to maintain sufficient moisture content. In contrast, during the dormant season, it is best to decrease watering frequency. Overwatering of the plant can result in root rot and the death of the plant.
Fertilization of Feijoa Sellowiana
Feijoa sellowiana requires frequent feeding during the growing period. It is advisable to apply a balanced fertilizer that contains a high amount of potassium to promote fruit production. The best time to apply fertilizer is during the spring season. Over-fertilization can lead to poor fruit production and unripe fruit.
Pruning Feijoa Sellowiana
The Feijoa sellowiana plant requires minimal pruning to maintain its shape and promote proper growth. During the growing period, it is best to remove any damaged or diseased branches to prevent the spread of diseases. Late winter is the ideal time to prune the plant since it is in its dormant stage. Pruning helps to encourage vigorous growth and improve fruit production.
Propagation of Feijoa Sellowiana
Feijoa Sellowiana, also known as Pineapple Guava, may be propagated through several methods, including seed, cuttings, grafting, and layering.
Seed Propagation
While Feijoa Sellowiana seeds are abundant, they have a low germination rate of around 50%. They should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept at a constant temperature of 21°C (70°F). Germination typically occurs within 3-4 weeks. However, seedlings may take up to two years before they are large enough to transplant to a permanent location.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings are the most common method to propagate Feijoa Sellowiana. Hardwood cuttings are taken in late autumn or early winter. The cuttings should be approximately 8 inches long and have at least two nodes. They should then be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. Place the cuttings in a shaded location and maintain humidity around the cuttings. Roots should develop in 4-8 weeks, after which they can be transplanted to a permanent location.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is a more complicated method to propagate Feijoa Sellowiana, but it ensures that the resulting plant is identical to the parent plant. Scions taken from a mature tree should be grafted onto suitable rootstock. Grafting is typically done in late winter or early spring when both the stock and scion are in a dormant state.
Layering Propagation
Layering is another method to propagate Feijoa Sellowiana. Choose a low hanging branch and strip a section of bark approximately 8 inches long. Dust with rooting hormone and backfill the area with soil. Roots will form at the wounded area, and the branch can be cut from the parent tree and transplanted once roots are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Feijoa Sellowiana (O. Berg) O. Berg
Feijoa sellowiana, commonly known as Pineapple Guava, is a small tree that produces fruit with a sweet and tangy flavor. Despite its hardiness, this plant can still fall prey to a number of diseases and pests. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect Feijoa and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Some of the common diseases affecting Feijoa include:
1. Twig Blight
This is a fungal disease that causes wilting and drying of the twigs. It is most common during wet weather conditions. The disease can be managed by pruning and burning all the infected twigs.
2. Fruit Rots
Feijoa fruit may suffer from fruit rots caused by various fungal pathogens. These rots can cause fruit decay and bad odors. The best way to manage this disease is by harvesting fruit at the right time and avoiding excessively wet conditions.
3. Leaf Spots
Leaf spots can cause defoliation, leading to a reduction in fruit quality. These spots are caused by different fungal pathogens. You can avoid leaf spots by practicing good orchard hygiene, pruning, and disposing of infected leaves.
Pests
Some of the common pests affecting Feijoa include:
1. Guava Fruit Fly
Guava fruit fly is a common pest that likes to lay eggs in Feijoa fruit. The maggots that hatch from these eggs will damage the fruit's flesh and cause it to rot. One of the best ways to manage these pests is to use organic insecticides like spinosad or kaolin clay.
2. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing, speckling, or bronzing of leaves. These pests are mostly found in hot and dry conditions. You can manage spider mites by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Mealybugs
Mealybugs affect Feijoa trees by piercing the leaves and stems and sucking the sap. This can lead to leaf wilting and weakening of the plant. Alcohol swabs or horticultural oils are effective in controlling mealybugs.
By practicing good orchard hygiene, monitoring Feijoa trees regularly, and using organic and chemical treatments when necessary, you can keep diseases and pests at bay and enjoy healthy and fruitful Feijoa trees for many years.
