What to know
Soursop , also eff as graviola , is atropical yield treethat produces large , spiky fruits with a sweet andtangy flavor . It is native to the Americas but has been widely cultivated inNigeria dueto its adaptability and numerous health benefits . If you ’re calculate to add this alien yield to your home garden , this comprehensive guide will bring home the bacon you with all the essential information on how to plant soursop in Nigeria .
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
The first footstep in planting prickly custard apple is choose a suitable site . Soursop Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree favour well - drained dirt with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0 . They involve full sun to fond spook , with at least six hours ofdirect sunlightper day . forefend planting in areas withwaterlogged soilor strong wind . Before planting , devise the soil by tilling it to a deepness of 12 - 18 in . absent any rocks or debris andadd organic mattersuch as compost or manure toimprove territory fertilityand drainage .
Propagation
Soursop trees can be propagated from seeds or cuttings . Seed propagation is the most plebeian method andinvolves extracting seedsfrom advanced fruits . The seeds should be washed and dried before planting . sprouting typically occurs within 2 - 3 weeks . Cuttings can also be used for propagation , but they require more care and expertness . Softwood cuttings bring frommature treesare root in a well - drain mediumsuch as perlite or vermiculite .
Planting
Once the seedling or cuttings are ready , you’re able to proceed with planting . grasp a trap twice the width of theroot balland late enough to reconcile theentire root system . Place the seedling or cut off in the pickle and backfill with soil , softly firmingit around the base . water system the tree good after plant .
Spacing
Soursop trees can grow quite large , so it ’s of import toprovide adequate spacingwhen planting . Therecommended spacingbetween trees is 20 - 25 infantry . This will ensure that the trees have enough way to spread their roots and receive sufficient sunlight .
Watering
Soursop tree require regular watering , specially during thedry time of year . pee thetrees deeplyat the base , head off overhead lacrimation which can advance fungal diseases . The oftenness of tearing will count on the stain type and weather weather . Generally , irrigate once or twice a hebdomad should be sufficient .
Fertilizing
feed soursop tree diagram is essential foroptimal growthand yield product . practice a balanced fertilizer with anNPK ratioof 10 - 10 - 10 or 12 - 12 - 12 . Fertilize the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree every 3 - 4 months during the growing season .
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the form of the tree diagram andencourage fruit production . Remove any dead ordiseased branches , as well as any sucker that may turn from the base of the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree . Prune the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree softly after fruiting toremove spend branchesand further Modern growth .
Harvesting
Soursop fruit typically ripen 3 - 4 month after flowering . The fruits are quick to glean when they turn a lite green or yellow colour and have a tenuous give when pressed . switch off the fruit from the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree with asharp tongue , leave behind a short stem bond .
Pests and Diseases
Soursop Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree are comparatively insubordinate to pesterer and disease , but they can be affect by sure insects such as mealybug and scale . Treat infestation promptly using appropriate pesticides or insecticidal easy lay .
The Bottom Line
Cultivating soursop in Nigeria is a rewarding experience that providesnumerous benefit . By following the steps sketch in this guide , you may successfully establish and keep a roaring soursop orchard . Enjoy the sweet , tangy fruits and reap thehealth benefitsassociated with this tropic delicacy .
Information You Need to Know
1 . How long does it take for asoursop treeto bear fruit?A : Soursop trees typically get bearing fruit3 - 4 year after planting.2 . How can Iattract pollinatorsto my prickly custard apple trees?A : works flowersthatattract beesand other pollinators , such as lilac , rosemary , or sunflowers.3 . Issoursop safeto eat during pregnancy?A : Although there islimited scientific grounds , it is generally recommended toavoid consuming soursopduringpregnancy dueto potential toxicity concerns.4 . Cansoursop leavesbe used for medicinal purposes?A : Yes , soursop leaveshave been traditionally used in some cultures for their anti - incitive andantimicrobial dimension . However , more enquiry is needed to confirm their efficacy.5 . How can I stash away soursop fruits?A : Soursop fruits can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week . stinger yield should be wrapped inplastic wrapto prevent moisture loss .
