Pomegranate Elche

• Originally from Spain, the Elche variety is prized for its exceptionally sweet fruit with soft, edible seeds that don't require spitting out.
• Produces stunning orange-red trumpet-shaped flowers in spring and summer, followed by large ruby-red fruit that ripens in autumn.
• Grows as a small deciduous tree or large shrub, reaching 3-4 metres tall with attractive silvery-green foliage that turns golden in autumn.
• Highly drought tolerant and heat resistant, making it perfect for Australian conditions and water-wise gardens.
• Self-pollinating variety that doesn't require another tree to produce fruit, though cross-pollination can improve yields.

• Water deeply once or twice weekly in summer, reducing to monthly in winter once established - check soil moisture before watering.
• Position in full sun location with at least 6 hours direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering and fruit production.
• Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost - avoid heavy clay or waterlogged areas that can cause root problems.
• Feed with balanced fertiliser in early spring and again in early summer, avoiding high nitrogen feeds that promote leaves over fruit.
• Prune lightly in late winter to remove dead, damaged or crossing branches and maintain good air circulation through the canopy.
• Mulch around the base with organic matter to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from the trunk.
• Harvest fruit when skin develops deep red colour and makes a metallic sound when tapped - usually March to May in Australia.

• Plant in full sun for best fruit production and flowering - at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings - pomegranates are drought tolerant once established.
• Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, keeping mulch away from the trunk.
• Prune in late winter to remove dead wood and improve air circulation, maintaining an open centre for light penetration.
• Feed with balanced fertiliser in spring and again in early summer to support flowering and fruit development.

• Aphids can cluster on new growth - spray with horticultural oil or encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds. Regular inspection helps catch infestations early.
• Fungal diseases may occur in humid conditions - ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Remove affected leaves promptly.
• Root rot develops from waterlogged soil - plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering, especially during cooler months.
• Scale insects attach to stems and leaves - treat with white oil spray and scrape off manually where possible.