Cherimoya (Annona cherimola), sometimes called “custard apple” or “ice cream fruit,” offers a unique tropical flavor blending notes of banana, pineapple, and strawberry. Growing this distinctive fruit from seed is a rewarding endeavor, allowing gardeners to cultivate a taste of the tropics. While cherimoya trees can take several years to bear fruit, this guide provides steps to successfully plant cherimoya seeds and care for the emerging seedlings.
Preparing Your Cherimoya Seeds
Germinating cherimoya seeds begins with proper preparation. Source fresh seeds, as their viability declines over time, though they remain viable for two to three years if stored dry. After extracting seeds from ripe fruit, thoroughly clean them to remove all pulp, preventing mold and fungal growth.
Once cleaned, pre-treatment such as soaking improves germination rates. Soaking seeds in warm water for 24 to 48 hours is recommended; some soak for up to four days, discarding floating seeds. Light scarification, like gently rubbing with sandpaper or nicking the hard seed coat, aids water absorption and promotes sprouting.
Planting the Seeds
With seeds prepared, select appropriate containers and a suitable planting medium. Choose pots at least 6 inches deep, ideally 8 inches or more, as cherimoya seedlings develop a taproot requiring ample vertical space. This depth prevents taproot deformation, which could stunt growth.
A well-draining potting mix prevents root rot. A blend of equal parts peat and sand is effective, or a mixture of quality potting soil with perlite or coarse horticultural sand. Plant each prepared seed about 3/4 to 1 inch deep. Water the soil thoroughly until moist but not waterlogged.
Optimizing Germination
After planting, creating the right environmental conditions aids cherimoya seed germination. Consistent warmth is key, with optimal temperatures for germination ranging between 75-85°F (24-29°C). A constant temperature around 86°F (30°C) can lead to higher germination rates and faster sprouting times.
Maintaining adequate humidity around planted seeds encourages sprouting. Cover pots with a humidity dome or plastic wrap to retain moisture. While warmth and humidity are beneficial, avoid direct, intense sunlight; indirect light or partial shade is preferable. Cherimoya seeds sprout within 3 to 5 weeks, though germination can take 4 to 6 weeks or longer.
Caring for Young Cherimoya Seedlings
Once cherimoya seeds germinate and young seedlings emerge, provide proper care for their continued development. Young plants benefit from bright, indirect light or filtered sun, as direct, harsh sunlight can cause scorching. Gradually acclimate them to more sun exposure, aiming for morning sun and afternoon shade.
Consistent watering during the seedling stage encourages root development, keeping soil moist but never waterlogged to prevent root rot. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry slightly before rewatering. Cherimoya seedlings do not require fertilization in their initial months; however, once they establish a few true leaves, a balanced, general-purpose fertilizer can be introduced. Seedlings are ready for transplanting to a larger pot once they have developed three true leaves.