Q: I tasted pomegranate fruit for the first time this year and I love it. Now I am seeing the fruit is in abundance in all the grocery stores. Can we grow it in Northeast Florida?

A: Pomegranates are typically grown in warm temperate climates with the ideal conditions receiving cool winters and hot, dry summers. Pomegranates are native to southeastern Europe and Asia and were grown in ancient Egypt, Babylon, India, and Iran. These fruits were also grown extensively in Spain, moved with missionaries into Mexico and California in the 16th century. It is possible for us to grow pomegranates and the Extension office has a small tree in the Yulee demonstration garden now. Our tree produced 2 small fruit this first year. I am willing to try the fruit, because, like you, I think they are delicious. Not only is the fruit wonderful, the tree produces a beautiful orange flower in the late summer and early autumn. California has the most ideal climate for heavy production – the softball size pomegranates you see at the markets. We do not have to worry too much about cold damage here and the pomegranate can tolerate temperatures as low as ten degrees which makes it much less sensitive than citrus. It would make an excellent small tree for smaller yards as it grows between 12 and 20 feet tall. It should be planted where it can receive sufficient, full time, sunlight. Consider choosing ‘Purple Seed’ or ‘Spanish Ruby’ as your choice for planting in your yard. Soil should be slightly organic with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. Fertilize in March and November using a complete fertilizer such as 8-8-8. Over fertilization and over watering can cause fruit drop – remember balance in everything! For more complete information, read the University of Florida publication on pomegranates. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/MG/MG05600.pdf

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