How to Start a Pomegranate Tree

Pomegranates are high in antioxidants and you can grow them at home.

Pomegranate trees grow in abundance in hot, dry conditions and are particularly prevalent in Afghanistan. High in antioxidants, which are said to reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease, the fruit of the pomegranate tree has a sweet yet subtle flavor and is packed full of seeds. Given time, these seeds can be germinated even in milder climes and, within a couple of years, you could be producing your own delicious pomegranates.

Things You'll Need

• Small plant pots
• Broken pots
• Soil
• Horticultural grit
• Pomegranate seeds

Instructions

1. Place a layer of broken pots or large gravel in the bottom of each plant pot to aid drainage. When growing plants from seed, it is worthwhile to grow more than one as they may not all germinate. If you end up with more than you need, spare seedlings can make inexpensive gifts.

2. Mix some horticultural grit or perlite with soil. The mixture should be about three parts soil to one part grit. Your garden center may supply soil already mixed in this way. Pomegranate trees do not like to stand in damp soil, so this mixture will allow water to drain away quickly.

3. Fill plant pots with mixed soil and press one seed into each pot, thinly covering with soil. When purchasing seeds, look for an edible variety. Anna Pavord of "The Independent" newspaper recommends 'Fina Tendral.'

4. Water each pot and place them in a greenhouse, conservatory or by a south-facing window. Avoid letting the temperature drop below 41 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. Water only when the soil begins to feel a little dry. From May to October, feed plants with a high-nitrogen plant feed, and in the winter, water only when soil is dust dry.

6. Re-pot when the plants become root-bound. This should only be necessary every couple of years. Use the same easy-draining mix.

7. Put plants outside during the summer. They will benefit from the sunlight and ventilation. Ideally, place them by a south or west-facing wall for shelter. While the tree may produce fruits in the first year, two to three years is more likely.

Tips & Warnings

• Pomegranates thrive in soil with a pH of around 6.5. Use a pH soil test kit to determine the pH of your soil mix.

References

• Huw's Garden: How to Grow Exotic Plants for Free
• The Independent: Anna :Pavord on the Appeal of the Pomegranate
• Hints and Things: Punica Pomegranate Fact Sheet
• California Rare Fruit Growers: Pomegranate