The Barbados cherry (Malpighia glabra) is a small tropical fruit tree that can be grown in a food forest in central Florida. It is also known as Acerola and for its small, red, and juicy fruit that are high in vitamin C and antioxidants. Once specifically grown for vitamin C production. However, it’s important to note that Barbados 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 as they get established.
Barbados cherry prefers well-drained soil, full sun, and regular watering. When planting Barbados 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.
Barbados cherry require regular watering, but be careful not to over-water, as they do not tolerate soggy soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer.
Barbados cherry is one of my top three picks for fruit shrubs or trees as it typically takes about 1-2 years from planting to reach maturity and be ready for harvest. Generally, it can fruit the first year. 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.
Barbados 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.
Barbados cherry is generally a hardy and disease-resistant tree. However, there are a few pests and diseases that can affect it:
- Fruit fly: This is one of the most common pests that affect Barbados cherry. To control fruit flies, you can use insecticides or cover the fruits with bags or nets.
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and fruits of Barbados cherry. It can be controlled by pruning the affected parts of the tree, ensuring proper drainage, and avoiding over-fertilization.
- Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the tree, leading to poor growth and eventual death. It can be controlled by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding over-watering.
Propagation of Barbados cherry can be done through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. Cuttings should be taken from mature, healthy branches and planted in well-draining soil and placed in a warm humid place to fully root.
Barbados cherry can be grown in a food forest in central Florida, but it’s important to choose cold hardy varieties and to take extra precautions to protect the trees from frost and cold temperatures. With proper care and attention, a Barbados cherry tree can produce a bountiful harvest of nutritious and delicious fruit.