The term “Pomelo” covers various varieties of grapefruit. Citrus maxima - the real grapefruit - originally comes from southern China and Southeast Asia and is still widely cultivated in this region today. We also have a pomelo, which was created in the 1970s from a cross between pomelo and grapefruit. Both varieties are now grown worldwide in the so-called subtropical “citrus belt” between the 20th and 40th parallel.
How to grow pomelos successfully?
Pomelo cultivation requires a sunny, wind-protected place, regular watering without waterlogging, loose and permeable soil, citrus fertilizer and a bright location. The plants should be pruned and overwintered frost-free as they are sensitive to cold.
The propagation of the pomelo
In its subtropical homeland, the pomelo tree can grow very tall: the plant reaches up to 15 meters and develops a wide, sprawling crown. Branches of ungrafted trees have many axillary thorns up to five centimeters long. But with us you can usually grow your own pomelo tree from the seeds of a purchased pomelo without any problems. The pomelo - whether a grapefruit or a hybrid product - is very fast-growing and also easier to care for than other types of citrus. The tree is less sensitive to cold (not frost!) and can therefore remain outdoors for a longer period of time. In addition to propagation via seeds, vegetative propagation via cuttings is also possible. To shorten the tree's long youth phase, you should graft on Poncirus trifoliata, the bitter lemon or three-leaf orange.
Caring for a Pomelo
Caring for pomelo is very similar to caring for other types of citrus, as the plants' requirements are almost the same. The Pomelo
- needs a full sunny, wind-protected outdoor spot during the growing season
- needs to be watered regularly but moderately
- does not tolerate waterlogging
- should be fertilized about every two weeks with liquid citrus fertilizer (€6.00 on Amazon)
- needs loose, well-drained soil (preferably citrus soil)
- and always a bright location
- The pomelo should also be cut at least once a year, it grows very easily
Overwintering the pomelo
Just like all other citrus plants, the pomelo does not tolerate frost, even if it is otherwise less sensitive to cooler temperatures. In winter you should place the plant in a not too warm but bright location and water occasionally (but not too often!). In the winter quarters, temperatures between five and ten degrees Celsius are optimal. Basically, the following applies to all citrus plants, including pomelo: the warmer the plant is, the brighter its surroundings have to be. Due to its sensitivity to frost, the pomelo should not be planted in the garden
Tips & Tricks
The New Zealand grapefruit, which is quite similar to the pomelo, is probably best suited for keeping in our latitudes. The “New Zealand Grape” has grapefruit-like, flat, wide fruits that are very mild. This tree needs significantly less heat than a normal grapefruit or pomelo and also ripens earlier.
