The tree tomato or tamarillo, as a nightshade plant, is only distantly related to the tomato, so it cannot be compared with it. It is grown commercially in South and Central America and New Zealand, but is also suitable for home gardens.
How to plant a tree tomato correctly?
To successfully plant a tree tomato, choose low-nitrogen tomato or cactus soil, plant it in a suitable container with drainage and ensure sufficient light, humidity and moderate temperatures (20 ° C). Pot culture makes overwintering easier in a cool, dark area (5-10 °C).
If it grows up to seven meters high in its homeland, you can expect it to be around two to five meters tall at home. Although the tamarillo is considered quite easy to care for, it is very sensitive to waterlogging or excess nitrogen and can only tolerate light frost. However, it thrives in practically all possible lighting conditions from direct sun to full shade.
Is the tree tomato suitable for planting in containers?
Since the Tamarillo is not hardy, it is particularly suitable for planting in containers. This means it can be quickly and easily transported to winter quarters in the fall. Make sure that the bucket is heavy enough and therefore stable. Regular repotting is required. If the plant is too big for you, it can easily be cut back.
What should I consider when planting the tamarillo?
The tree tomato thrives best in soil that is low in nitrogen, otherwise the leaves will change color and the flowers may not bloom at all. Special tomato or cactus soil works well as a substrate. Planting in the garden is only recommended if you live in a very mild area. There the tamarillo should survive the winter outside with appropriate protection.
When planting in a container, choose a container that is not too large. The roots should have enough space. If the container is significantly larger than the root ball, then root growth will be stimulated unnecessarily. There should be a drainage hole in the pot as well as a drainage layer made of broken clay or large pebbles. This way you can water the tamarillo generously without causing waterlogging.
The most important things in brief:
- Growth height: 2 to 7 m
- egg-shaped yellow or red fruits, very tasty to eat raw or cooked
- ideal growth temperature: around 20 °C
- not frost hardy
- Wintering: cool (approx. 5 °C to 10 °C) and dark
- high humidity desired
- fertilize rather low in nitrogen
- regular pruning required
Tip
If you plant your tree tomato in a pot, it can be relatively easily transported to a suitable winter quarters.
