🌸 GROWING GUIDE – Annonaceae

(Cherimoya, Corossol, Atemoya, Sugar Apple

Annonaceae are luxury tropical fruit trees. Their fruits, with a pastry cream flavor, are highly prized. They require warmth, light, and very controlled watering.

Repotting

Use a very well-draining potting mix such as Promix HP with added perlite. Repot only in spring. The roots are sensitive to overwatering. Choose a medium to large pot and ensure excellent drainage.

Light

Annonaceae prefer bright light but indirect or filtered sunlight. A greenhouse offers ideal conditions. Indoors, place them near a bright window or under artificial light.

Watering

Allow the surface of the soil to dry out slightly before watering. In summer, water two to three times a week depending on the heat. In winter, reduce watering to once every 7 to 10 days. Always use lukewarm water.

Fertilizer

Fertilize with a balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer once a week during the summer. Add Actisol once a month to support growth. Do not fertilize during the winter.

Temperature

These plants love the heat: 22 to 30°C is ideal. They are very sensitive to cold and suffer below 12°C.

Flowering and production

Production is possible in heated greenhouses. Some varieties require manual pollination. The fruits are spectacular as they develop.

Wintering

Keep them in a cool, mild place (14–18 °C), with bright light. Reduce watering significantly.

Tropico-Québec Advice

Annonaceae plants love stability. Avoid frequent moving. They thrive much better in a heated greenhouse.