Sapodilla Brown Sugar in 3 gallons pot, Grafted, Sawo, Cheeku, Lamut

Note: You will receive Sapodilla tree in 3 Gallons pot similar to the pictures 

Sapodilla 'Brown Sugar' (Manilkara zapota 'Brown Sugar') is a prized variety of sapodilla known for its sweet, brown sugar-like flavor and high-quality fruit. Native to southern Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, this tropical evergreen tree typically grows 30 to 50 feet tall in the wild but can be kept smaller with pruning. The tree’s dark green, leathery leaves and small star-shaped flowers give way to the delicious, round to oval fruits, which have a smooth brown skin and grainy, brown flesh with a texture similar to a soft pear or custard. The flavor is intensely sweet with caramel and spice undertones, making it a favorite among tropical fruit lovers.

Care Guide for Sapodilla 'Brown Sugar'

1. Light Requirements

   • Full Sun: Sapodilla 'Brown Sugar' thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The more sun the tree receives, the better the growth and fruit production.

2. Soil Requirements

   • Well-Draining Soil: Sapodilla requires well-draining, loamy soil with organic content. It tolerates slightly sandy soil, but it does best with a pH between 6.0-7.5. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot, so avoid heavy clay unless amended for drainage.

3. Watering

   • Regular Watering: While Sapodilla 'Brown Sugar' is drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from regular watering during the growing season (spring and summer). Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. During dry periods or fruiting, water more frequently. Avoid standing water around the roots, as this can cause root rot.
   • Deep Watering: Promote deep root growth by watering deeply, especially during the first few years.

4. Temperature

   • Warm Temperatures: Sapodilla 'Brown Sugar' thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with temperatures between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 32°C). It is frost-sensitive, and temperatures below 30°F (-1°C) can damage or kill the tree.
   • Frost Protection: In cooler areas, grow the tree in a container or plant it in a warm microclimate to protect it from frost.

5. Humidity

   • Moderate to High Humidity: Sapodilla prefers moderate to high humidity. In dry climates, mulching around the base of the tree can help retain moisture and maintain humidity around the roots.

6. Fertilizing

   • Balanced Fertilizer: Fertilize Sapodilla 'Brown Sugar' with a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) during the growing season (spring and summer). You can also use organic compost or slow-release fertilizers.
   • Fertilizer Frequency: Apply fertilizer 2-3 times a year, especially during flowering and fruiting periods. Avoid over-fertilizing, particularly with nitrogen-heavy formulas that may encourage excessive leaf growth.

7. Pruning

   • Minimal Pruning: Sapodilla 'Brown Sugar' requires little pruning beyond removing dead or damaged branches. Light pruning can help maintain the tree’s shape and size, but avoid heavy pruning, as it may reduce fruit yield.
   • Training the Tree: If space is limited, pruning can help shape the tree, but be aware that sapodillas naturally grow large and need plenty of room.

8. Pollination

   • Self-Pollinating: Sapodilla 'Brown Sugar' is typically self-pollinating and does not require another tree to produce fruit. However, having multiple trees nearby can enhance fruit yield. Pollination is assisted by bees and other pollinators.

9. Pests and Diseases

   • Pest-Resistant: While generally resistant to pests, Sapodilla 'Brown Sugar' can occasionally attract scale insects, aphids, or mealybugs. Inspect the tree regularly for pests and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.
   • Diseases: Root rot is a concern in poorly draining soil. Leaf spot and fungal infections may develop if the tree is overwatered or exposed to excessive humidity.

10. Harvesting

• Harvesting Fruit: Sapodilla fruits take 6 to 9 months to ripen after flowering. They are ready for harvest when soft to the touch, similar to a ripe pear, and have slightly wrinkled skin with a sweet, brown-sugar-like scent. Allow the fruit to ripen fully off the tree, as sapodillas do not ripen well once picked.

11. Container Growing (Optional)

• Container-Friendly: For those in cooler climates or those with limited space, Sapodilla 'Brown Sugar' can be grown in a large container. Choose a pot with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix. Be sure to move the container indoors when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C). Repot as needed if the tree becomes root-bound.