The Great Guanabana Hunt: Where to Find This Spiky Fruit Tree in California
Ah, the guanabana. The fruit with the looks of a medieval torture device and the taste of a tropical paradise. Its creamy flesh is pure deliciousness, and its spiky exterior is perfect for deterring overeager squirrels (or maybe just giving them a surprise). But where, oh where, do you find this magical tree in the land of sunshine and avocados? Fear not, fellow fruit enthusiast, for I shall be your guide on this glorious quest!
Hit the Nursery, Not the High Seas
First things first, forget about chartering a schooner and pillaging the jungles of South America. Guanabana trees are actually cultivated right here in California! Head to your local reputable nursery and ask the friendly staff if they carry these tropical wonders. Here are a few California nurseries known to harbor these spiky treasures:
- Organic Fruit Tree And Herb (Los Angeles): These guys have a stellar reputation and a wide variety of exotic plants. Just be sure to bring your sunscreen, because California sunshine is no joke.
- Papaya Tree Nursery (Granada Hills): Known for their, well, papaya trees, they might also surprise you with a guanabana or two. Call ahead for an appointment, though, because these plant pirates are popular!
- Louie's Nursery (Riverside): With multiple locations, you're bound to find a Louie's near you. They boast a wide selection of tropical fruit trees, so keep your eyes peeled for the guanabana amongst the mangoes and rambutans.
Online Options: A Click Away From Guanabana Greatness
Maybe braving the crowds isn't your thing. No worries, fellow fruit fanatic! The internet is your oyster (or, well, guanabana in this case). Several online retailers offer guanabana trees, but be sure to check that they ship to California. Some things to keep in mind:
- Shipping: These trees aren't exactly lightweight. Factor in shipping costs before you click "buy."
- Climate: Make sure the seller guarantees the tree can survive the California climate (most can, but it's always good to double-check).
Growing Tips: A Guanabana Garden Paradise
So you've snagged your very own guanabana tree! Congratulations! Now comes the fun part: watching it grow into a spiky behemoth that produces delicious fruit. Here are some quick tips:
- Plant it in a sunny spot: Guanabanas love the warmth!
- Protect it from frost: These tropical trees are not fans of the cold shoulder. Bring it indoors or cover it up if the temperature dips.
- Be patient: It might take a few years before you see any fruit, but the wait is totally worth it.
Guanabana FAQs
How to plant a guanabana tree?
Guanabana trees do best in well-draining soil and a sunny spot. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and plant your tree at the same depth it was in the pot. Water it regularly, especially during the first year.
How to care for a guanabana tree?
Guanabana trees need regular watering, especially during hot weather. Fertilize them a few times a year with a balanced fertilizer. Prune them lightly to encourage branching and fruit production. Protect them from frost if necessary.
How long does it take for a guanabana tree to fruit?
It can take 3-5 years for a guanabana tree to produce fruit from seed. Grafted trees may fruit a little earlier.
How big do guanabana trees get?
Guanabana trees can grow up to 25-30 feet tall.
What do you do with guanabana fruit?
Guanabana fruit can be eaten fresh, juiced, used in smoothies, or made into ice cream. The flesh is delicious and has a creamy texture with a slightly tart flavor.
So there you have it, folks! Your one-stop guide to finding and growing your very own guanabana tree in California. Now get out there and start your tropical fruit adventure! Remember, the journey to guanabana greatness is half the fun (and the other half is the delicious fruit, of course).
