Planting Pomegranate 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.
NOTE: This is part 3 in a series of 9 articles. For a complete background on how to grow pomegranate trees, we recommend starting from the beginning.
Sunlight Requirements Pomegranate trees thrive in full sunlight. Choose a planting site that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The more sunlight, the better the fruit production. Avoid locations with excessive shade.
Soil Quality Pomegranate trees prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Sandy loam or loamy soil types are ideal. Conduct a soil test to assess nutrient levels and make amendments if necessary. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Air Circulation Ensure good air circulation around the planting site. Pomegranate trees are susceptible to fungal diseases, so avoid planting them in areas with poor air movement. Adequate airflow helps prevent diseases and promotes overall tree health.
Water Drainage Choose a site with good water drainage. Pomegranates are drought-tolerant once established, but well-drained soil is essential for their health. Avoid waterlogged conditions to prevent root problems.
Frost Considerations Pomegranate trees can tolerate some frost, but consider the local climate and potential frost dates. Plant the tree after the last frost in spring to avoid cold damage to new growth. If frost is a concern, choose a site that minimizes exposure to late-season frost.
Planting Pomegranate Trees in the Ground
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Loosen the soil in the hole to promote good root development.
- Place the pomegranate tree in the center of the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
- Backfill the hole with the removed soil, gently tamping it down to remove air pockets. Water the tree thoroughly after planting.
- Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree, leaving a gap near the trunk to prevent rot. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and suppresses weeds.
- Stake the tree if needed to provide support during its early growth.
Planting Pomegranate Trees in Pots:
- Select the Right Container Choose a large, sturdy container with drainage holes. Pomegranate trees have an extensive root system, so a pot with a diameter of at least 18 inches is recommended. Ensure the container is made of a material that insulates against temperature fluctuations.
- Potting Mix Use a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for fruit trees. You can add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Avoid garden soil, as it may lead to poor drainage in pots.
- Sunlight for Potted Trees Place the potted pomegranate in a location that receives full sunlight. If growing indoors, ensure the tree receives adequate sunlight through a south-facing window or supplement with grow lights.