Often times referred to as pummelo, the pomelo is an ancestor of the grapefruit, and is also the largest citrus fruit in the world! With 4-12 inches across, this citrus giant looks and tastes just like a grapefruit, but because of its thick peel, lasts much longer. If you're interested in learning how to grow pomelo as an alternative to grapefruit, keep reading!
Pomelo trees are native to the far East, especially Malaysia, Thailand, and southern China. The tree itself has a low canopy, rounded like an umbrella, with evergreen foliage. The leaves are green and glossy, while its flowers are white and aromatic. The flowers are so aromatic in fact, that they are often used to make perfumes.
How to Grow Pomelo
Planting Pomelo:
- You can grow pomelo if you live in a tropical or subtropical climate or in a green house. Be patient though, as it can take up to 8 years for a pomelo tree to give way to fruit.
- Plant in an area where the tree will receive full sun.
- The tree isn't too picky when it comes to the type of soil it will grow in. It will thrive in clay, loam, or sand, with a highly acidic and highly alkaline pH.
- Regardless of what type of soil you're growing pomelo in, make sure that you provide it with good drainage.
- Keep the area around the tree free of grass, weeds, and debris. This will prevent disease.
- Fertilize with a citrus fertilizer according to package instructions.
- Pomelo tree can grow up to 24 inches per season and can live 100-150 years, reaching a height of 25 feet.
So now that you know how to grow pomelo, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to planting!
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