Guava Hawaiian

• Hawaiian guavas originated in Central America and were introduced to Hawaii, where they became naturalised and developed unique characteristics.
• The fruit has distinctive pink flesh with a sweet-tart flavour and intense tropical fragrance that intensifies when ripe.
• Trees can grow 3-6 metres tall with attractive glossy green leaves and small white flowers that bloom throughout the year.
• Popular for fresh eating, smoothies, and making jams due to their high vitamin C content and exotic taste profile.

• Water deeply twice weekly in summer, reducing to weekly in winter - check soil moisture 5cm down before watering.
• Position in full sun with morning sun essential for fruit development and disease prevention in Australian conditions.
• Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost - avoid heavy clay or waterlogged positions that cause root problems.
• Feed monthly with balanced fertiliser during growing season (spring to autumn), reducing to quarterly in winter.
• Prune lightly after harvest to maintain size and shape, removing dead wood and improving air circulation.
• Maintain consistent soil moisture but never waterlogged - mulch heavily to retain moisture in hot Australian summers.
• Protect from frost and strong winds - consider greenhouse protection in cooler regions during winter months.

• Provide full sun to partial shade with at least 6 hours direct sunlight daily for best fruit production and tree health.
• Water deeply twice weekly during growing season, reducing to weekly in winter. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Maintain humidity around the plant by mulching heavily and grouping with other tropical plants in dry climates.
• Protect from frost and cold winds - bring potted plants indoors when temperatures drop below 10°C.
• Prune lightly after harvest to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches for better air circulation.

• Fruit flies can damage ripening guavas - use exclusion bags or organic fruit fly traps during fruiting season. Remove fallen fruit promptly to break breeding cycles.
• Scale insects may appear on leaves and stems, causing yellowing and sticky honeydew. Treat with horticultural oil or systemic insecticide.
• Root rot occurs in poorly drained soils, causing leaf drop and wilting. Ensure excellent drainage and avoid overwatering.
• Anthracnose fungal spots on leaves and fruit develop in humid conditions. Improve air circulation and apply copper-based fungicides.