Sweet and Juicy Red Custard Apple (Annona Squammosa Rubra) Plants for Sale

1. Introduction

• Scientific Name: Annona squamosa rubra
• Common Names: Red Custard Apple, Red Sugar Apple, Red Sweetsop
• Origin: Native to Central and South America, and the Caribbean

2. Plant Description

• Appearance: Small to medium-sized evergreen tree with spreading branches
• Height: 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) tall
• Leaves: Oblong, green, and glossy, with a length of 4-8 inches (10-20 cm)
• Flowers: Solitary or in clusters, greenish-yellow or yellowish-brown, with a diameter of 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm)
• Fruit: Round or heart-shaped, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in diameter, with a reddish-brown, segmented skin and sweet, creamy, white or light pink flesh

3. Plantation

• Climate: Tropical and subtropical regions
• Temperature: 60-90°F (15-32°C)
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy, and slightly acidic soil (pH 6-6.5)
• Spacing: 15-20 feet (4.5-6 meters) apart

4. Growing

• Propagation: Seeds or grafting
• Germination: 2-4 weeks
• Watering: Regular watering, allowing soil to dry slightly between watering
• Fertilization: Balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied every 2-3 months during the growing season
• Pruning: Remove dead or damaged branches, and thin to allow sunlight penetration

5. Care

• Pest control: Monitor for pests such as scale insects, mealybugs, and fruit flies; use appropriate organic or chemical controls as needed
• Disease management: Proper sanitation and good air circulation can prevent fungal diseases
• Harvesting: Pick fruits when they turn from green to reddish-brown, and are slightly soft to the touch

6. Benefits

• Culinary uses: The sweet, creamy fruit can be eaten fresh or used in desserts, smoothies, and other recipes
• Medicinal properties: The leaves, bark, and seeds have various traditional medicinal uses, such as treating fever, inflammation, and digestive issues
• Ornamental value: The tree's attractive foliage and fruit make it a popular choice for tropical and subtropical gardens

7. Additional Tips

• Pollination: Hand pollination may be necessary for higher fruit yields in areas with low pollinator populations
• Frost protection: Use frost cloth or move potted plants indoors during cold weather to protect from frost damage