Planting Jujube Trees
Successfully establishing a young fruit tree starts with your planting site and method. Once a fruit tree is established, it needs little assistance to grow and bear fruit; but you’ll want to make sure you give your trees the right foundation.
Fruit trees require fertile soil for good growth. If unsure about the condition of your soil, contact your local County Extension Office for information about soil testing in your area, or purchase one of our digital meters for quick and accurate results. Jujube trees enjoy a soil pH between 4.5 and 8.0.
NOTE: This is part 3 in a series of 8 articles. For a complete background on how to grow jujube trees, we recommend starting from the beginning.
Planting Site
Sunlight Requirements: Jujube trees thrive in full sunlight. Choose a planting site that receives at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid locations with excessive shade, as sunlight is crucial for the tree’s growth and fruit production.
Soil Quality: Jujube trees prefer well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (4.5-8.0). Conduct a soil test to assess the soil’s nutrient levels and adjust accordingly. Sandy loam or loamy soil types are ideal for optimal root development.
Water Drainage: Select a site with good water drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Jujube trees are drought-tolerant once established, but they still require well-drained soil to thrive.
Space Considerations: Jujube trees can reach a mature height of 15-25 feet. Provide enough space between trees, considering both their height and canopy spread. This prevents overcrowding and allows each tree to receive ample sunlight and nutrients.
Pollination
Though jujubes are self-pollinating, meaning they will produce some fruit without another tree nearby, they perform better with cross-pollination from another jujube.