The Surinam cherry (Eugenia uniflora), also known as Pitanga, is a small tropical fruit tree that can be grown in a food forest in central Florida. It is known for its small, red, and juicy fruit that are high in vitamin C and antioxidants. Surinam cherry is a nutritious and flavorful fruit that can be eaten fresh, used in jams, jellies and baking, or dried and used as a sweetener. It is a hardy and easy to care for plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil types and moisture levels. However, it’s important to note that Surinam cherry is sensitive to frost and cold temperatures, so it’s best to grow them in a protected location or in a container that can be brought indoors during the winter months.
Surinam cherry prefers well-drained soil, full sun, and regular watering. When planting Surinam cherry, make sure to space the trees about 8-10 feet apart and make sure they get at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Surinam cherry typically take about 2-3 years from planting to reach maturity and be ready for harvest. The fruit should be picked when it is fully ripe, which is when the fruit is bright red and slightly soft to the touch. To harvest, simply pick the fruit off the tree with your fingers.
Cold Hardiness
Surinam cherry is a tropical plant that prefers warm and humid conditions, but there are some cold hardy varieties that can tolerate temperatures down to 28°F.
Self-Pollinating
Surinam cherry is a self-fertile plant, which means that it doesn’t require cross-pollination from other plants to produce fruit. However, planting multiple trees will increase fruit production.
Planting and Care
Surinam cherry prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, but can also grow in full sun. It is important to water the tree regularly during the growing season, especially during dry spells. Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and late summer can help promote healthy growth and fruit production.
Harvesting
Surinam cherry fruits are ripe when they turn bright red or purple and have a slightly soft texture. The fruits can be harvested by hand or using a fruit picker. It is important to handle the fruits carefully as they are delicate and can bruise easily.
Propagation
Surinam cherry can be propagated by seed or cuttings. To propagate by seed, collect the ripe fruits, remove the pulp and wash the seeds. Plant the seeds in well-drained soil and keep the soil moist. Germination can take 2-4 weeks. To propagate by cuttings, take a 6-8 inch cutting from a healthy plant and remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem. Dip the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a shaded area until roots develop.
Diseases and Pests
Surinam cherry is generally pest and disease resistant, but it can be affected by aphids, mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Surinam cherry can also be affected by root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poorly-drained soil. To prevent root rot, ensure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Surinam cherry is a delicious and low-maintenance fruit tree that can be a great addition to a central Florida food forest. By following the planting and care tips outlined above, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of Surinam cherry fruits.