Here’s a clear, practical guide to growing and caring for June Plum Tropical Fruit Trees 🌴🍏 (June plum = Ambarella, scientific name Spondias dulcis)
1. Climate Requirements
June plum is a true tropical tree.
USDA Zones: 10–12
Ideal temperature: 75–95°F (24–35°C)
Growth slows below 60°F (15°C)
Damage below 40°F (4°C)
Frost will kill the tree
Humidity: Medium to high
The tree performs best in warm, coastal, or humid tropical climates
If you live in a cooler area, grow it in a large container and protect it from cold.
2. Sunlight
Full sun is essential.
Young trees: Full sun to light shade
Mature trees: Full sun (6–8+ hours daily)
Too much shade results in weak growth and little or no fruit.
3. Soil Requirements
June plum is adaptable but prefers good drainage.
Soil type: Loamy or sandy, well-draining
pH range: 5.5–7.5
Tolerates poor soils but grows best in fertile soil
Avoid waterlogged or heavy clay soils
Ideal soil mix: Garden soil + compost + sand or perlite
4. Planting
Plant in spring or early summer.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball
Plant at the same depth as the nursery container
Water thoroughly after planting
Space trees 20–30 ft apart
For containers, start with a 20–25 gallon pot with drainage holes.
5. Watering
Moderate water needs.
Young trees: Water 2–3 times per week
Established trees: Deep watering once or twice weekly
Once mature, June plum is fairly drought-tolerant
Soil should dry slightly between waterings but never stay soggy.
6. Fertilizing
Feed regularly for best growth and fruiting.
Use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or tropical fruit blend
Fertilize every 2–3 months during the warm growing season
Organic options like compost, manure, or fish emulsion work very well
Avoid excessive nitrogen, which causes leafy growth with little fruit.
7. Pruning
June plum responds well to pruning.
Prune young trees to control height and shape
Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches
Prune after harvest or during warm months
Can be kept at 10–15 ft with regular pruning
8. Flowering & Fruiting
Trees may flower once or twice per year in warm climates
Fruit matures 4–6 months after flowering
Fruits are harvested green (sour) or yellow (sweeter)
Seed-grown trees fruit in 4–7 years
Grafted trees may fruit in 2–4 years
June plum is self-fertile.
9. Pests & Diseases
Generally low maintenance.
Possible pests: Aphids, scale insects, fruit flies
Diseases: Root rot from poor drainage
Control with neem oil, good airflow, and proper watering.
10. Cold Protection
Protect from cold winds
Mulch around the base
Move container plants indoors when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C)
11. Expected Size
In ground: 30–60 ft tall
With pruning: 10–20 ft
Container-grown: 8–12 ft
Key Tips for Success
Warm temperatures year-round
Full sun
Well-drained soil
Regular feeding
Light pruning to manage size
Protect from cold
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