Custard Apple Seeds

Annona squamosa

Note: Seeds are toxic if ingested

Overview

The Custard Apple (Annona squamosa), also known as Sugar Apple, Chirimoyo, Atemoya, and Sweetsop, is a small, evergreen fruit tree native to tropical regions of the Americas. It thrives in warm climates and produces sweet, creamy, segmented fruit with a delightful tropical flavor.

Growth & Climate Requirements

• Climate: Tropical, Subtropical, and Temperate (if protected during winter)
• Temperature Range: 10 to 38°C (50 to 100°F)
• Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam
• Location: Full sun to partial shade
• Water Requirements: Light to medium
• Pollination: Naturally pollinated by ants or hand pollination

Plant Characteristics

• Growth Type: Fast-growing, evergreen (semi-deciduous in cooler climates)
• Height: Up to 6 metres (20 feet)
• Width: Up to 6 metres (20 feet)
• Leaf Size: Mature leaves grow up to 18 cm long and 7 cm wide
• Fruiting Season: Summer to autumn
• Fruit Characteristics: Green, bumpy, approximately 10 cm long and 8 cm wide
• Yield: A mature tree can produce around 75 fruits per season

Germination & Maturity

• Germination Rate: 86%
• Germination Time: 3-4 weeks, depending on conditions
• Germination Difficulty: Easy
• Time to Maturity: 2-4 years
• Seed Storage: Store at 4°C (fridge) for up to 6 months

Special Considerations

• Not frost-tolerant; protect from temperatures below 10°C
• Can be grown in temperate regions if provided with proper care (e.g., greenhouse or indoor growing)
• More wind-tolerant than other Annona species, except in cold, frosty conditions
  

How to Grow Annona squamosa (Custard Apple)

Step 1: Scarification

Gently rub the seeds against sandpaper or concrete to slightly wear down the outer shell. This helps moisture penetrate and speeds up germination. Be careful not to over-scarify, as this can damage the seed inside.

Step 2: Soaking

Place the seeds in a clean container of cooled, pre-boiled water and soak for 12-24 hours. If soaking for longer, change the water periodically to prevent bacterial contamination.

Step 3: Sowing & Germination

1. Fill a small pot with seed-raising mix.
2. Sow each seed 1 cm deep, covering lightly with soil.
3. Mist with water to avoid disturbing the seed.
4. Place the pot in a greenhouse or cover it with clear plastic wrap to maintain humidity.
5. Keep in a warm, well-lit location with temperatures around 25°C (77°F). Use a heat mat if necessary.
6. Germination typically occurs within 3-4 weeks.

Step 4: Transplanting Seedlings

• Once seedlings sprout, transplant them into a small to medium pot after 1-2 weeks.
• Keep in a warm, frost-free location for the first winter, possibly indoors.
• Temperatures below 10°C can cause damage, and frost will kill the plant.

Step 5: Final Transplant

• Move the plant to its final position in spring.
• Ensure a north-facing, full-sun location for best growth.
• Mulch well at the base to retain warmth and moisture.
• Provide additional watering during fruiting season.

Maturity & Fruiting: Custard Apple trees take approximately 2-4 years to mature and start bearing fruit.

Enhance your garden with Custard Apple Seeds and enjoy its delicious, tropical fruit! 🌱🍈