How to grow pomegranate at home
What's the story
Growing pomegranates indoors can be a rewarding experience, giving you the opportunity to enjoy sweet, juicy fruits right at home. Though these plants are usually grown outdoors in warm conditions, with the right conditions and care, they can also flourish indoors. Here are some practical tips for creating an ideal environment for pomegranates inside your home, ensuring healthy growth and fruiting.
Plant selection
Choosing the right variety
Selecting a dwarf variety of pomegranate is essential for indoor cultivation. These varieties are more manageable in size and adapt better to container growing. Look for types like Nana or Provence, which are known for their compact growth and ability to produce fruit even when grown indoors.
Light requirements
Providing adequate light
Pomegranates also need plenty of sunlight to thrive. Place your plant near a south-facing window where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. If natural light is not sufficient, you can also use grow lights to supplement and make sure that the plant gets enough light for photosynthesis.
Temperature control
Maintaining optimal temperature
Pomegranates enjoy warm temperatures between 20 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). Keep them away from cold drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations that might stress the plant. During winters, ensure the indoor heating does not dry the air around the plant too much.
Hydration tips
Watering and soil needs
For optimal growth, use well-draining soil mixed with sand or perlite to avoid waterlogging. It's crucial to water the plant thoroughly, yet allow the top inch of soil to dry out before the next watering. Overwatering can cause root rot, making it vital to regularly check the soil's moisture level to maintain a healthy balance. This approach ensures the pomegranate's roots are not sitting in excess water, promoting better growth.
Nutrient supply
Fertilizing for fruit production
To keep your pomegranate plant healthy indoors, feed it with a balanced liquid fertilizer every four weeks during spring and summer. This routine provides the essential nutrients for healthy growth and fruiting. As the seasons transition into fall and winter and the plant's growth slows down, remember to fertilize less frequently. This prevents overfeeding during its dormancy and keeps the plant healthy.