Guavas

(Best in southern parts of Houston and further south) Guavas are beautiful  tropical well rooted shrubs or small trees with spreading branches, that work in our area with a little care.

Care of Guava Trees

Care: Keep in pot until late March or early April and bring in if there is going to be a frost or freeze. Then the tree can be planted in the ground or transplanted to a larger pot (up to 15 gallons), if that is to be its home. Full sun is best. Plant in well drained location using the existing soil only. It likes regular deep watering during blossom and fruiting time. It benefits from regular light fertilization.

Cold tolerance: Does not like freezes. Overhead protection and planting on the warm side of a building or structure will often provide suitable frost protection for guavas in cooler areas. A frame over the plant covered with fabric will provide additional protection during freezes, and electric lights or a large bucket of water can be included for added warmth. Potted plants can be moved to a more protected site if necessary.  If it does get hit by a frost or freeze, it could freeze to the ground, but will grow right back; however there will be no fruit production that year.

Pruning: The tree can be pruned to a short bush. Since fruit forms on new growth, pruning will encourage production. And pruning can keep the plant the size to easily handle for frosts.

Harvesting: There is a distinctive change in the color and aroma of the guava that has ripened. For the best flavor, allow fruit to ripen on the tree.

Varieties of Guavas for the Houston Area Climate

Barbie Pink is a large pink-fleshed guava that is good for eating fresh. The pulp is smooth, sweet and aromatic. Fruit will produce the first year, but pick it off and let the energy go into root growth.