I personally think a lawn is a waste of time and money. You water, weed and feed it, just to mow it down and cycle goes on and on. It's insanity. You can't eat grass. Inspiring video...hopefully more people will follow you lead. Thanks for sharing.
I hate our lawn but my husband disagrees with everything so I just do whatever I want for example 8 years ago I planted a $5 orange tree and now we get over 75 large red navel oranges every year I should have bought a lemon and grapefruit as well lol.
The one thing i am so happy to see in recent years in the central valley is this. People are beginning wake up to the fact that we can grow A LOT more than basic trees. It doesnt have to be all oak, pine and lawns, lawns LAWNS. Farmers grow fruit and nuts here for a reason!!! So when I see more and more banana trees cropping up in front yards, or a loquat instead of a solely ornamental tree in someones yard, i get SO happy 😄
I live in Tucson, which is also 9a/9b depending on elevation. We also have the ability to grow subtropical/tropical fruit trees alongside chill hour trees, making it a fruit lovers paradise. Everyone thinks nothing can grow in the desert, which couldn't be further from the truth provided adequate irrigation and a bit of sun protection during summer.
Well said. On occasions, I get comment on my channel asking why I’m “wasting” my time when these tropical fruit trees won’t survive in my climate. Lots of uneducated people out there. Best to simply ignore them.
Amazing garden! I’m envious. Although I live in 10a (SF Bay Area), we don’t get enough summer heat to make true tropicals thrive, nor enough cold to make things like black currants and blueberries thrive. I wish you luck on the mangosteen - nothing like a fresh mangosteen!
Thank you. Having been to the Bay Area (mostly Pier 39), I understand your climate. It may have just been the days I visited, but the weather is always cloudy and breezy.
Thank you. You’re certainly not alone in thinking tropicals can’t grow here. My local nurseries tells me all tropicals will be killed off by the frost.
what a beautiful video! i love your optimism and realistic viewpoints! it’s so refreshing to see such abundance be grown in the middle of the city! I also live in zone 9b (i’m in central florida) and we are doing the same thing in our backyard/homestead, in the middle of the city! i can’t get mangosteen to grow (yet!) but, you’ve just inspired me to try again because it is our favorite fruit! thank you so much for this beautiful representation and lovely inspo
That’s awesome. It’s mostly been trial and error on my part, mostly error, however, with each setback, knowledge is gained. There’s really nothing quite like picking up ripen fruits from trees that you grew.
Thank you. Having been to San Diego (SeaWorld) and surrounding areas (Exoctica Rare Fruit Nursery), your area is ripe for the growing of tropical fruit trees, though you may struggle to grow some of our deciduous fruit trees such as apples, apricots, etc. that requires significant winter chill hours).
Another excellent video! Good to see mangosteen growing! As you have mentioned, I have several shade clothes (40%) in my backyard to protect my young tropicals (incl. bananas) from afternoon sun. I had 4 wax jambu seedlings but they all died in winter. Will try again this summer.
I am up the road from you in the Fresno/Clovis area. We have four lemon trees and not much else in terms of produce. I don't think of this as a tropical area by any means, but I am learning about growing more greens, etc. Recently began composting in place and working on doing it more effectively. Glad to see a 'neighbor' here on YT.
In many ways, I’m glad we aren’t in a tropical zone, as then we won’t be able to grow other non-tropical fruit trees, many of which requires extensive chill hours during the winter season.
A think there is a balance between lawn and gardens. I have both. I grew up with both. I have many memories playing games on lawn in bare feet and having lots of room to run. Large family get togethers on our lawn, surrounded by our gardens. I also have memories of playing in the gardens. Pretending we lived in a forest, etc. Both are equal in my eyes. I wish people would stop shaming others for their preferences. It does cost a lot of money to establish gardens. Not everyone has the time or resources.
Although I agree with your statement, when you examine the history behind homes with lawn, it makes no sense. Similar to how diamonds are marketed. In certain parts of the country, lawns are becoming outlawed, made worst by the mega drought much of the western states have been experiencing for the past 20 years. When I had my lush lawn, my kids seldom go outside to play. I suspect this may be a generational thing, as many kids today prefer to leverage technology. The only memory I had with my lawn is the hour and a half spent every 2 weeks cutting, trimming and cleaning the grass. The planting of trees is way cheaper than the purchasing of sod, as the seed from the fruit you ate will likely germinate if given the opportunity to be put in the ground.
I love all your videos. So inspiring. I lived in Central Valley like you and grow some tropical fruit trees too. Most are in 20 gallons pots. I bought a Manila mango tree from Lowes 2 yrs ago. It flowered last year with no fruit. But this year no flower. I don't even see the grafting point either. I'm worried it's grown from seed thus it will take years to bare fruits now.
Thank you. Specific to Manila mango trees, the vast majority of them are grown from seeds. However, when grown from seed, it typically only take them 3-4 years before bearing fruit. Mine took 3 years before produce its first batch of fruits. Besides the Mamey sapote, longan, lychee, jamun, and other trees, the majority of tropical fruit trees bear fruit within 4-6 years if grown from seed.
Oh ok. Thank you for that reassurance. I just repotted it into a 20 gallon pot 2 days ago and noticed there's not a robust roots systems. How do I get it to thrive and bare fruits? I really want to taste one. Maybe I'll just go to your backyard and pick some, lol.
Thank you very much for your video. I’m in fresno so I understand our climate yet I still struggle a bit. It seems like you’ve created your own microclimate under the canopy of foliage. Did you face any struggles during your transition to your current backyard state?
Thank you. Initially, the struggles were quite often as some of my tropical fruit trees would die from summer and winter, however, as the microclimate gets better, the remaining tropicals weren’t stressed (as much). The creation of the climate took many years, however, once established, it then become easier to grow tropical fruit trees.
You are awesome. Thanks a lot for your videos. Your garden is a masterpiece. I wanted to ask - did you plant your loquat from the seed? I have a loquat in my garden. It was grown from the seed 4-5 years ago. I was wondering if I needed to graft it in order for it to bear fruit.
Thank you. Yes, mine was grown from seed and produced fruits without issues. The next video I’m going to make is actually going to be able loquat. Should be made and released tomorrow.
Binge watching your videos. Have you talked about space in your yards as the trees grow? Container size as the containered trees grow, And getting enough sunlight in the winter.
I have - th-cam.com/video/o9wkmuZG1q0/w-d-xo.html Luckily, our climate artificially keeps many of the tropical fruit trees smaller than their cousins in their native environment. This enables me to have a huge variety in a 2,000 square foot yard. I have strategically placed all of my trees for shade protection. Winter sunlight really isn’t an issue for me, however, our summer sun poses a much bigger problem, particularly for younger and other tropicals (sapote, sapodilla, etc.) can appreciate some sun protection.
I'm also in a 9b and trying to grow plants they said I can't. How do you deal with winter rain? Our summers are hot and dry and we don't get much frost; but we do have cold wet winters and even though the ground is excessively well drained I'm concerned this might be the biggest issue for my tropicals. Wikipedia shows the Central Valley receives maybe a third of our annual rainfall and we get the bulk of that in winter.
We’re very lucky to be in the Goldilocks Zone of being able to grow just able anything. Unfortunately, most people don’t know about it or are misinformed. I still remember stopping by my local nurseries way back and being informed that they don’t sell tropical as our frost will kill the tropicals.
Hi! In one of your videos you mention your trees love the temp between 80-90F. For growing these trees, would you prefer somewhere like CA Central Valley that regularly gets 10F+ *above* this range, or somewhere like CA central coast (Monterey county for example) that is regularly 10F *below* this range in the summer? Thank you!!
Although they prefer those ideal temperature, the tropicals also adapt nicely, given that you try to mimic their growing conditions to their native climate. The goal is to slowly acclimate the tropicals to our region and in most cases, they will eventually adapt.
@@TropicalCentralValley ok thanks, that’s helpful. I’m looking at several places to move in northern CA and being able to grow tropicals is a large factor. I was concerned about fruit ripening in cooler coastal climate (even though it’s 9b+) but sounds like microclimate engineering will do the trick.
As with many of my tropical fruit trees, when young, I lightly water them, but more frequently. As the tree is now mature, I do give it quite a bit of water, especially in its fruiting stage. Overall though, my water bill has actually been cut in half compared to when I had my lawn.
I’m 5-6 years behind you starting my fruit forest. The problem I have is placing each fruit tree to get the best protection from hot sun and the frost. Do you worry about some fruit trees might not getting enough sun light or not enough sun warmth in the winter ? Thanks for sharing
In the very beginning, the first few years, during the summer time, I heavily shaded many of my tropical fruit trees with shade clothe. My front and backyard was nothing but shade clothe. I eventually removed them as the years pass. Concerning winter, I actually do not protect them at all. Some did die, however, the vast majority did make it. As for the trees fighting for sunlight, it hasn’t been an issue yet. The way I placed the trees, the ones that can take the full sun are not near any larger trees, however, the trees that can appreciate some shade (e.g. Alano Sapodilla, Grumichama, etc) are planted next to larger trees for shade protection.
I live in the Cal. Northern Central Valley but have the dreaded clay soil and hard pan. It cost a small fortune to amend the soil in my small garden. The top soil is very dense. The hard pan starts at a depth of about 12 to 18 inches and continues for at least six feet. When my husband (a contractor) worked on the footings for our addition, the hard pan actually broke the tractor bucket! I’d hate to invest in trees only to watch them die. We do have trees in the area, but mostly Maple, Oak and Ash. Are there tropical varieties that will grow here or is my only option to grow small trees in containers? Your expertise is very much welcomed 😊
Your land situation is identical to mine. Fortunately, the roots of the majority of tropical fruit trees do not go deep. About 95% of them are near the upper 1 to 2 foot of soil. Here’s a video I did that covers the process of dealing with clay soil. How To Turn Clay Dirt into Nutritious Soil for Tropical Fruit Trees th-cam.com/video/rzF8sRmHdaM/w-d-xo.html
wow great video ! this is awesome ! i have a space also in my backyard that used to be a lame lawn and transformed it into a orchard including mandarin oranges mexican lime Red haven peach olympic giant asian pear hosui asian pear a plum tree with 4 grafts valencia orange tree ruby supreme guava tree some peppers prickly pear cactus blue java banana plants grape vine , i live in santa maria ca we are in the same zone but it’s not crazy hot here in summer it’s not too foggy it’s been fairly humid and 74-79 and 60 degree dew points these last summers and in the winter it’s not too cold either but is really dry the humidity in the teens because of the santa ana winds some days and other days it’s cold and rainy, any suggestions for a tropical tree like sapote or mango
From the description of your climate, many tropicals shouldn’t have any issues growing and thriving there, including sapote (except the Mamey). You’re probably not going to have any issues with mango trees, however, you’ll need almost perfect soil conditions for the mango trees.
@@TropicalCentralValley Thank you so much ! I do have some sort of micro climate going on as well I could say so it’s great for the plants, many farmers grow avocados and wine grapes and citrus in the foothills near by haha! have a good day!
Excellent question. In short, I get it from my local tree trimming/cutting companies and reapply annually. I go into greater details in my other video: th-cam.com/video/UkSTlajv3jQ/w-d-xo.html
Even when young, I actually did not protect it in any way. As with many sapote trees (Mamey being the exception), the Black Sapote does quite well with cold weather.
@@TropicalCentralValley I actually found your channel because I was looking for other gardening channels in my zone. It’s so dang hot out here, but I’m always testing limits haha. We used to talk in the break room about Apple vs Droid. And as the years have progressed and so have I, team Apple is where I’ve found myself these days. Don’t feel bad about not guessing who this is. I totally forgot your name, but I remember you. I mean that in the nicest way possible. P.S. all those tropical fruit trees are goals! If my husband would let me take over the landscaping with fruit tree, I totally would.
I bought a seedling of tamarind and 2 foot tall duhat. First time to plant these. Your thoughts about how to not kill them. Btw, your videos are addicting.
Do you have any recommendation for pests? Here in Sacramento, it seems like fruit trees get covered with rats at night. The fruit balls to the ground and then there were roaches everywhere. I’d love to know if there’s anything one can do about that. Thank you! Love your video.
Specific to rodents, there’s really no easy solution. I’ve had to resort to using rat traps in my yard. Effective, but messy. As for the roaches, I’d had great results with Harris Road Tablets.
Great video and informative content as always. Just wondering how is your mamey sapote doing? Mine was doing great at first until suddenly all the leaves were fallen with black edges. Then when the weather started to warm up, the whole trunk died back gradually. Now the whole part above grafting point shriveled up. Do you think it would be due to post cold damage? Hope your mangosteen, rambutan and all other tropicals take off well😀glad to see the mangosteen is taking new growth since last time I saw you put it in the ground!
All of my Mamey sapote are doing well. Very little impact from the frost, though, mine has gone through many seasons of frost. The Mamey sapote is one of the more frost sensitive sapote varieties. In addition to the mangosteen, the rambutan seedling too is doing awesome. Both are enjoying the warm weather.
@@TropicalCentralValley That’s great😃 how many years for your mamey to produce fruits? By the way, if I remember correctly, you also have green sapote right? May I know if it is a seedling or grafted tree? Is it also from Mimosa? I heard somewhere that green sapote from Florida nurseries are grafted onto mamey rootstocks which are less cold tolerant. Do you have any recommendations about where to get trees that are grafted onto green sapote seedlings? Thank you 😊
Grafted Mamey sapote trees take about 5 years before it produces fruits. Once fruited, the fruit remains on the tree for an additional 15-24 months before it is ripen. I’m unaware of any Green Sapote scion being grafted onto Mamey rootstocks. This process doesn’t make sense to me as the Green Sapote is quite frost hardy. Mimosa Nursery in Los Angeles is where I purchased my grafted Green and Mamey Sapote trees.
@@TropicalCentralValley Yeah, I second with you on the rootstock thing. However, I have talked to several nurseries in Florida and the owner told me their green sapotes are grafted on mamey. Maybe using mamey sapotes as rootstock is common practice there. 🙂
My deciduous trees go dormant from November to March. The tropical fruit trees do not go dormant, however, I give them the same treatment as I do not want them to grow during the winter season.
Amazon - Chapin 4720 HydroFeed 2-Gallon... www.amazon.com/dp/B07HRH4B81?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share The one I got was a 2 gallon, for $87. They have a 1 gallon for $75. I’d spend a little extra for the larger one.
On the topic of pollinators... I have 10+ yellow/red strawberry guava's that flower non stop but have yet to set fruit (even though some of them came with fruit when I bought them over the past few years). Any tips to get them to set fruit? I thought they would be easy! My Tropical guava's seem to set fruit late as well which causes them to ripen the fruit in winter / spring of following year which makes them have much less sugar content since a portion of their development is when there is far less sun exposure.
That’s very interesting. Almost all of my guava trees (various varieties) have their fruits ripen between August to October. The Vietnamese guava being the exception, as it’s fruit ripens around December. Specific to your question, my Strawberry Guava is planted in full sun, getting about 12-14 hours of sunlight daily. This may explain why I’ve never had any issues with fruit production. Guava trees are somewhat heavy feeders, preferring lots of water, particularly when they’re young. Have you tried increasing your PK and water to your guavas during the flower stages?
@@TropicalCentralValley thanks for the tips. All my guavas are in full sun all day long. I do give a balanced fruit tree fertilizer 4-5 times a year and I have a 1ft deep mulch layer that I maintain. Maybe I will try a fert that is heavier in P and K instead of a balanced one.
Depending on the state of the tree, I would adjust your feeding regimen. When my trees are flowering or fruiting, I do not give it any nitrogen and instead, focus on giving it phosphorus and potassium. Giving a flowering/fruiting tree nitrogen essentially makes the tree concentrate more on its growth than fruit production.
Hello again I was wondering about if I can use Hawaiian plumeria leaves as a mulch for my newly planted mango tree ? My next door neighbor has a 20ft mango and Haas avacado that grow slightly over the fence into our yard. I was using his fallen avacado leaves for my 5 ft four year old Fuerte avacado tree. ? And can I use his fallen mango leaves around my new Kent mango tree ? I get a steady flow of say 25 mature brown leaves from each of his trees per week. Hey it's free mulch to me.
You absolutely can use the leaves. Leaves are actually much better than wood chip as they break down very quick, however, it still isn’t a bad idea to incorporate some wood chip into your mulch mixture. One note conceding the leaves, make sure the tree from which the leaves fell do not show any signs of disease or harboring pests such as powdery mildew.
I completely agree, though not all 9b zones are equal. For example, I would love to switch our winter for other 9b zone regions such as Arizona or Florida’s.
@@TropicalCentralValley True! Florida Zone 9B is lush green while here in Bay Area, Zone 9B is very dry (and windy). I think Zone 10A in Fremont, CA is wonderful to grow topicals such as mangoes and also for plants that need some chill hours such as grapes, apples, jujubes. Compared to my backyard, my friend's backyard in Fremont is 3-4 weeks ahead in terms of growth spurts on plants in spring season.
Great Video! Everything is looking wonderful! Where could I get that liquid fertilizer injector from? It looks really nice, it would save me a ton of time.
Amazon - Chapin 4720 HydroFeed 2-Gallon... www.amazon.com/dp/B07HRH4B81?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share The one I got was a 2 gallon, for $87. They have a 1 gallon for $75. I’d spend a little extra for the larger one.
@@TropicalCentralValley That's awesome thank you so much! Definitely the larger one! Do you fill the tank completely with pure liquid fertilizer or dilute it to some extent? Do you use it to only feed your container trees or your in ground trees as well? I want it for my container trees.
Specific to my use case, I do not dilute it, as the dilution occurs automatically when the fertilizer is siphoned into my automatic watering system. Dilution really depends on how much fertilizer you wan to give your trees. The system I have gives liquid fertilizer to all trees.
Papaya seeds germinate extremely easily, and given the number of seeds you find in a papaya, you’re bound to get a dozen or more seedlings. I’d rinse the seeds first, then sow them into the ground/potting soil and lightly cover the top with a pinch of soil then water.
You don’t. Grass clippings make poor mulching material as they break down too quick. Here are some videos covering the topic of mulching: Want Your Tropical Fruit Trees to Survive Winter - Mulch! th-cam.com/video/5TxBzSYEM_I/w-d-xo.html How To Turn Clay Dirt into Nutritious Soil for Tropical Fruit Trees th-cam.com/video/rzF8sRmHdaM/w-d-xo.html
Sheet mulching would be the best method. Here’s a video that talks about the topic: Starting A Tropical Fruit Tree Forest in USDA Zone 9B - Step 3 th-cam.com/video/MpCLprrjOKY/w-d-xo.html
I have not. I generally shy away from fertilizers that require heavy or additional processing such as JADAM and compost tea. Instead, I try to mimic how trees are fertilized in their natural environment (e.g. animals walking through the forest while deciding to go to the bathroom).
@@TropicalCentralValley they can be extra work than buying Neptunes harvest etc. but IF needed it’s cheap/free and the most natural way to fertilize and/or for pesticides
Thanks for the tip, though, following up on my most recent video in which I discussed my various methods of organically feeding my trees, I’m seeing excellent results with very little efforts and costs.
Thank you. I’m actually not too concerned about my house number or my vehicles’ license plates. I work in network security and knows anonymity is nearly impossible. Additionally, I have coordinated with many viewers that had stoped by to look at my trees.
The only issue i have when having a garden out front especially by the sidewalk is when people walking their pets or some wild animal urinate or poop on the plants/trees.
I completely agree with you. Although the naturist in me says the byproducts of animals onto my trees is welcome in the form of free fertilizer, I know not everyone agrees. That being the case, I actually have planted numerous crown of thorne flowers surrounding the perimeter. The crown of thorns will definitely deter any canines or felines from stepping onto my mulch. Additional, luckily, I’m surrounded by grass loving neighbors. Dogs and cats would much rather do their business in a nice lush lawn than pricky mulch.
I know that Alyssa has good luck growing tropical plants such as mango trees in a 9b climate zone here in Australia, she's located at Melbourne in Victoria :- th-cam.com/video/p6zBnBd2Chk/w-d-xo.html I live in a climate zone 10 which is just north of Sydney (Newcastle) in New South Wales in Australia. Sometimes there's bigger extremes all depending upon where you're located,for example, Paradise valley in Arizona has a 9b plant hardiness zone but their weather is much more extreme than what Melbournes is, they have freezing cold temperatures below 0°C (32°F) overnight during winter time & temperatures reaching up to 50°C (about 120°F) during summer time. Where Alyssa is located it seems to be the other way around because in Melbourne they seem to have 8 months of winter & 4 months of summer time but she grows big & beautiful mangoes there. In Zone 11 they harvest the Kensington Pride mangoes in the Northern Territory at Katherine & in Western Australia at places such as Kunninurra in October which is in mid spring over here but she's harvesting them in mid to late autumn at Melbourne !
That’s awesome. When I was in Orlando, Florida a few weeks back, although their zone is technically 9b, they experienced virtually no frost. Much of the Arizona regions too seldom experience frosty winters. Unfortunately for us in California’s Central Valley, we get the Tule Fog during the winter seasons. This bring numerous subfreezing events to our region.
Talking of Melbourne, which is 37 S latitude, I am at 37 N latitude (Bay Area, CA), so I follow what George (Fruitopia), Alyssa, Urban Bounty, etc are doing in their backyards! Plus, I get a 6 month advance planning (due to opposite seasons). :-)
Speaking of seeds , what can I do to persuade you into selling me a bunch of your papaya seeds . You have different types and I’m interested in trying to grow some .
Specific to papaya seeds, they’re known for their low success rate when it comes to transplanting them. For this reason, I always transplant as much as I can (about 25-30 seedlings). Most will die, however, a few generally make it. If possible, I’d stop by your local grocery store and see what varieties they have. From there, scope out the seeds then toss as much as possible into a 3-5 gallon container containing 40% sand, 40% peat moss, 10% potting soil and 10% perlite. This germination method has never failed me when it comes to papaya.
@@TropicalCentralValley ok thank you . I’ll try one of the local Florida nurseries or Etsy for the papaya seeds ,For some reason I’m not a fan of the papaya I get from the grocery stores here in Fl , it has a strong after taste that doesn’t work for my taste buds. I know you have mentioned other types of papaya in your videos so I will explore my options and try some seeds.
That’s interesting. Having been to Orlando recently, given the sandy loam soil, humidity and plenty of rainfall, I can’t imagine much difficulty with the growing of many tropical fruit trees. That compared to our frosty winters, dry summer 115° days, clay soil.
@@TropicalCentralValley Oh, we can grow fruit trees but the selection of flowers is slim unless you get native plants. But the native plants/flowers look like weeds.
How long did it take your Longan tree to fruit? Mine has gotten to the flowering state the last two years (last year they grew to pea-sized little Longans) before they shriveled up and fell off.
All of my various grafted Longan trees, have bear fruit within the first year or two. Your tree may simply know that it’s not ready to produce fruit. During blooming season, I typically increase my watering as well as eliminating nitrogen while increasing phosphorus and potassium.
@@TropicalCentralValley I think maybe I let the tree get a bit dry during a couple of the summer days. I'll try to make sure it stays moist in our 90-100 degree days. Thanks!
No problem. Trees with blooming flowers/fruits are quite sensitive to watering issues. The minute the tree feels it’s having difficulties obtaining water, it will start to drop the flowers/fruits. For this purpose, it is imperative that the tree does not encounter any water stress.
![14 Seeds to Plant in June - [Zones 9 and 10]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/BVDCpPWabhk/mqdefault.jpg)
I personally think a lawn is a waste of time and money. You water, weed and feed it, just to mow it down and cycle goes on and on. It's insanity. You can't eat grass. Inspiring video...hopefully more people will follow you lead. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you. Lawn is relatively cheap to buy, however, remains quite expensive over time and it provides virtually no benefit.
These have been my thoughts for so long too, such a waste imo
I hate our lawn but my husband disagrees with everything so I just do whatever I want for example 8 years ago I planted a $5 orange tree and now we get over 75 large red navel oranges every year I should have bought a lemon and grapefruit as well lol.
The one thing i am so happy to see in recent years in the central valley is this. People are beginning wake up to the fact that we can grow A LOT more than basic trees. It doesnt have to be all oak, pine and lawns, lawns LAWNS. Farmers grow fruit and nuts here for a reason!!! So when I see more and more banana trees cropping up in front yards, or a loquat instead of a solely ornamental tree in someones yard, i get SO happy 😄
Well said.,
I live in Tucson, which is also 9a/9b depending on elevation. We also have the ability to grow subtropical/tropical fruit trees alongside chill hour trees, making it a fruit lovers paradise. Everyone thinks nothing can grow in the desert, which couldn't be further from the truth provided adequate irrigation and a bit of sun protection during summer.
Well said. On occasions, I get comment on my channel asking why I’m “wasting” my time when these tropical fruit trees won’t survive in my climate.
Lots of uneducated people out there. Best to simply ignore them.
Amazing garden! I’m envious. Although I live in 10a (SF Bay Area), we don’t get enough summer heat to make true tropicals thrive, nor enough cold to make things like black currants and blueberries thrive. I wish you luck on the mangosteen - nothing like a fresh mangosteen!
Thank you.
Having been to the Bay Area (mostly Pier 39), I understand your climate. It may have just been the days I visited, but the weather is always cloudy and breezy.
Okay, you've inspired and convinced me to grow topical fruit here in the valley! Thank you for your videos! I didn't know it was possible.
Thank you. You’re certainly not alone in thinking tropicals can’t grow here. My local nurseries tells me all tropicals will be killed off by the frost.
@@TropicalCentralValley Thanks for proving them wrong and showing others that it's possible!
what a beautiful video! i love your optimism and realistic viewpoints! it’s so refreshing to see such abundance be grown in the middle of the city! I also live in zone 9b (i’m in central florida) and we are doing the same thing in our backyard/homestead, in the middle of the city! i can’t get mangosteen to grow (yet!) but, you’ve just inspired me to try again because it is our favorite fruit! thank you so much for this beautiful representation and lovely inspo
That’s awesome. It’s mostly been trial and error on my part, mostly error, however, with each setback, knowledge is gained. There’s really nothing quite like picking up ripen fruits from trees that you grew.
@@TropicalCentralValley PERIOD! you just said all facts 💪🏾💚✨
Dude, you're the best. Keep doing what you do. Very inspiring (from a guy trying this down in San Diego).
Thank you. Having been to San Diego (SeaWorld) and surrounding areas (Exoctica Rare Fruit Nursery), your area is ripe for the growing of tropical fruit trees, though you may struggle to grow some of our deciduous fruit trees such as apples, apricots, etc. that requires significant winter chill hours).
I like your ideas. I enjoyed yourvideo. It proves you can grow a big variety of plants in florida. Great job!
Thanks, but I’m actually in California, but to your point, if I can grow them, anyone in practically any location too should be able to.
Im glad I found you!! Hello from Southern California
Thank you.
Another excellent video! Good to see mangosteen growing! As you have mentioned, I have several shade clothes (40%) in my backyard to protect my young tropicals (incl. bananas) from afternoon sun. I had 4 wax jambu seedlings but they all died in winter. Will try again this summer.
That’s awesome. Sorry to hear about your wax jambu seedlings.
I am up the road from you in the Fresno/Clovis area. We have four lemon trees and not much else in terms of produce. I don't think of this as a tropical area by any means, but I am learning about growing more greens, etc. Recently began composting in place and working on doing it more effectively. Glad to see a 'neighbor' here on YT.
In many ways, I’m glad we aren’t in a tropical zone, as then we won’t be able to grow other non-tropical fruit trees, many of which requires extensive chill hours during the winter season.
I enjoy your videos. Keep them up thanks
Thank you. Always happy to share my personal experiences.
Great video I just moved to Central Valley California from San Francisco and all this is new to me I'm excited though
Thank you. We’re in a very sweet spot in terms of growing various chill hour loving fruit trees along side tropical fruit trees.
Love your videos
Thank you.
Thank you for this very informative video!
You’re very welcome.
A think there is a balance between lawn and gardens. I have both. I grew up with both. I have many memories playing games on lawn in bare feet and having lots of room to run. Large family get togethers on our lawn, surrounded by our gardens. I also have memories of playing in the gardens. Pretending we lived in a forest, etc. Both are equal in my eyes. I wish people would stop shaming others for their preferences. It does cost a lot of money to establish gardens. Not everyone has the time or resources.
Although I agree with your statement, when you examine the history behind homes with lawn, it makes no sense. Similar to how diamonds are marketed.
In certain parts of the country, lawns are becoming outlawed, made worst by the mega drought much of the western states have been experiencing for the past 20 years.
When I had my lush lawn, my kids seldom go outside to play. I suspect this may be a generational thing, as many kids today prefer to leverage technology. The only memory I had with my lawn is the hour and a half spent every 2 weeks cutting, trimming and cleaning the grass.
The planting of trees is way cheaper than the purchasing of sod, as the seed from the fruit you ate will likely germinate if given the opportunity to be put in the ground.
Wow beautiful job💯🌺🌺✅
Thank you.
I love all your videos. So inspiring. I lived in Central Valley like you and grow some tropical fruit trees too. Most are in 20 gallons pots. I bought a Manila mango tree from Lowes 2 yrs ago. It flowered last year with no fruit. But this year no flower. I don't even see the grafting point either. I'm worried it's grown from seed thus it will take years to bare fruits now.
Thank you. Specific to Manila mango trees, the vast majority of them are grown from seeds.
However, when grown from seed, it typically only take them 3-4 years before bearing fruit.
Mine took 3 years before produce its first batch of fruits.
Besides the Mamey sapote, longan, lychee, jamun, and other trees, the majority of tropical fruit trees bear fruit within 4-6 years if grown from seed.
Oh ok. Thank you for that reassurance. I just repotted it into a 20 gallon pot 2 days ago and noticed there's not a robust roots systems. How do I get it to thrive and bare fruits? I really want to taste one. Maybe I'll just go to your backyard and pick some, lol.
I agree!
A lawn is nice but having a fruit forrest is always better and fun to be around your own garden!! My friend to see you I live in the 559
Well said. Adding too is the fact that you’re growing some of the world’s best tasting and most nutritious fruits.
Thank you very much for your video. I’m in fresno so I understand our climate yet I still struggle a bit. It seems like you’ve created your own microclimate under the canopy of foliage. Did you face any struggles during your transition to your current backyard state?
Thank you.
Initially, the struggles were quite often as some of my tropical fruit trees would die from summer and winter, however, as the microclimate gets better, the remaining tropicals weren’t stressed (as much).
The creation of the climate took many years, however, once established, it then become easier to grow tropical fruit trees.
You are awesome. Thanks a lot for your videos. Your garden is a masterpiece. I wanted to ask - did you plant your loquat from the seed? I have a loquat in my garden. It was grown from the seed 4-5 years ago. I was wondering if I needed to graft it in order for it to bear fruit.
Thank you. Yes, mine was grown from seed and produced fruits without issues. The next video I’m going to make is actually going to be able loquat. Should be made and released tomorrow.
Love your trees! More envious about your HOA not being so strict😁
Yeah, luckily I live in a neighborhood without HOA…for now.
107° here in Texas 9a 🔥😮💨
So far all my tropicals still alive
Although hot, as your climate has plenty of humidity, the tropicals wont mind.
Love the videos! Lots of growers doing the same in Phoenix area. Almost grow anything.
Thank you.
I just got my mangoes to flower…from seed to flower in 3 years. They dropped their fruit but it was amazing to see!
That’s awesome. It’s just the beginning, as the tree is testing it’s environment for fruit production. It gets better year after year.
Binge watching your videos. Have you talked about space in your yards as the trees grow? Container size as the containered trees grow, And getting enough sunlight in the winter.
I have - th-cam.com/video/o9wkmuZG1q0/w-d-xo.html
Luckily, our climate artificially keeps many of the tropical fruit trees smaller than their cousins in their native environment. This enables me to have a huge variety in a 2,000 square foot yard.
I have strategically placed all of my trees for shade protection. Winter sunlight really isn’t an issue for me, however, our summer sun poses a much bigger problem, particularly for younger and other tropicals (sapote, sapodilla, etc.) can appreciate some sun protection.
I spied some beautiful Japanese Maples there. 9b really is such a wonderful growing zone.
Yes, it’s a Bloodgood Japanese Maple.
I'm also in a 9b and trying to grow plants they said I can't. How do you deal with winter rain? Our summers are hot and dry and we don't get much frost; but we do have cold wet winters and even though the ground is excessively well drained I'm concerned this might be the biggest issue for my tropicals. Wikipedia shows the Central Valley receives maybe a third of our annual rainfall and we get the bulk of that in winter.
My tropicals were loving the extra rain that we received last winter. One of my concerns is my trees not receiving enough water throughout the year.
Yes I definitely agree 💯
We’re very lucky to be in the Goldilocks Zone of being able to grow just able anything. Unfortunately, most people don’t know about it or are misinformed. I still remember stopping by my local nurseries way back and being informed that they don’t sell tropical as our frost will kill the tropicals.
Hi! In one of your videos you mention your trees love the temp between 80-90F. For growing these trees, would you prefer somewhere like CA Central Valley that regularly gets 10F+ *above* this range, or somewhere like CA central coast (Monterey county for example) that is regularly 10F *below* this range in the summer? Thank you!!
Although they prefer those ideal temperature, the tropicals also adapt nicely, given that you try to mimic their growing conditions to their native climate.
The goal is to slowly acclimate the tropicals to our region and in most cases, they will eventually adapt.
@@TropicalCentralValley ok thanks, that’s helpful. I’m looking at several places to move in northern CA and being able to grow tropicals is a large factor. I was concerned about fruit ripening in cooler coastal climate (even though it’s 9b+) but sounds like microclimate engineering will do the trick.
You would think more of your neighbors would be following your beautiful example.
Agreed, though, I do occasionally get folks (strangers) stopping by and asking questions.
How often did you water your Loquats when starting them in the ground?
As with many of my tropical fruit trees, when young, I lightly water them, but more frequently.
As the tree is now mature, I do give it quite a bit of water, especially in its fruiting stage.
Overall though, my water bill has actually been cut in half compared to when I had my lawn.
I’m 5-6 years behind you starting my fruit forest. The problem I have is placing each fruit tree to get the best protection from hot sun and the frost. Do you worry about some fruit trees might not getting enough sun light or not enough sun warmth in the winter ? Thanks for sharing
It’s funny so am I, and all I hear is, “the best tree was the one you planted was 5 years ago.”
In the very beginning, the first few years, during the summer time, I heavily shaded many of my tropical fruit trees with shade clothe.
My front and backyard was nothing but shade clothe. I eventually removed them as the years pass.
Concerning winter, I actually do not protect them at all. Some did die, however, the vast majority did make it.
As for the trees fighting for sunlight, it hasn’t been an issue yet. The way I placed the trees, the ones that can take the full sun are not near any larger trees, however, the trees that can appreciate some shade (e.g. Alano Sapodilla, Grumichama, etc) are planted next to larger trees for shade protection.
I live in "V". Also. Love to share and see our gardens
Thank you. I’m available on Instagram at TropicalCentralValley. Always enjoy seeing what my neighbors grow in their yard.
Very inspiring
Thank you.
They can grow a lot Norfolk island pine
I live in the Cal. Northern Central Valley but have the dreaded clay soil and hard pan. It cost a small fortune to amend the soil in my small garden. The top soil is very dense. The hard pan starts at a depth of about 12 to 18 inches and continues for at least six feet. When my husband (a contractor) worked on the footings for our addition, the hard pan actually broke the tractor bucket! I’d hate to invest in trees only to watch them die. We do have trees in the area, but mostly Maple, Oak and Ash. Are there tropical varieties that will grow here or is my only option to grow small trees in containers? Your expertise is very much welcomed 😊
Your land situation is identical to mine. Fortunately, the roots of the majority of tropical fruit trees do not go deep. About 95% of them are near the upper 1 to 2 foot of soil.
Here’s a video I did that covers the process of dealing with clay soil.
How To Turn Clay Dirt into Nutritious Soil for Tropical Fruit Trees
th-cam.com/video/rzF8sRmHdaM/w-d-xo.html
@@TropicalCentralValley Thank you so much for your response!😊👍
You’re very welcome.
wow great video ! this is awesome ! i have a space also in my backyard that used to be a lame lawn and transformed it into a orchard including mandarin oranges mexican lime Red haven peach olympic giant asian pear hosui asian pear a plum tree with 4 grafts valencia orange tree ruby supreme guava tree some peppers prickly pear cactus blue java banana plants grape vine , i live in santa maria ca we are in the same zone but it’s not crazy hot here in summer it’s not too foggy it’s been fairly humid and 74-79 and 60 degree dew points these last summers and in the winter it’s not too cold either but is really dry the humidity in the teens because of the santa ana winds some days and other days it’s cold and rainy, any suggestions for a tropical tree like sapote or mango
From the description of your climate, many tropicals shouldn’t have any issues growing and thriving there, including sapote (except the Mamey). You’re probably not going to have any issues with mango trees, however, you’ll need almost perfect soil conditions for the mango trees.
@@TropicalCentralValley Thank you so much ! I do have some sort of micro climate going on as well I could say so it’s great for the plants, many farmers grow avocados and wine grapes and citrus in the foothills near by haha! have a good day!
Where do you get your mulch? And how often do you apply it?
Thanks.
Excellent question. In short, I get it from my local tree trimming/cutting companies and reapply annually. I go into greater details in my other video: th-cam.com/video/UkSTlajv3jQ/w-d-xo.html
I saw your Black Sapote. How much did you protect it when young? I want to put mine in the ground in 9b. Thanks
Even when young, I actually did not protect it in any way. As with many sapote trees (Mamey being the exception), the Black Sapote does quite well with cold weather.
Dude, I think we used to work at VCB back in the day! I’m hella into gardening, too.
I’ve been found! From your YoutTube handle, I can’t quite make out your identity, but, it’s great to get in touch with old friends.
@@TropicalCentralValley I actually found your channel because I was looking for other gardening channels in my zone. It’s so dang hot out here, but I’m always testing limits haha. We used to talk in the break room about Apple vs Droid. And as the years have progressed and so have I, team Apple is where I’ve found myself these days. Don’t feel bad about not guessing who this is. I totally forgot your name, but I remember you. I mean that in the nicest way possible.
P.S. all those tropical fruit trees are goals! If my husband would let me take over the landscaping with fruit tree, I totally would.
I bought a seedling of tamarind and 2 foot tall duhat. First time to plant these. Your thoughts about how to not kill them. Btw, your videos are addicting.
Thank you. I would treat them as any tropical fruit tree. Just bear in mind, they can take full sun, even when young.
Do you have any recommendation for pests? Here in Sacramento, it seems like fruit trees get covered with rats at night. The fruit balls to the ground and then there were roaches everywhere. I’d love to know if there’s anything one can do about that. Thank you! Love your video.
Specific to rodents, there’s really no easy solution. I’ve had to resort to using rat traps in my yard. Effective, but messy.
As for the roaches, I’d had great results with Harris Road Tablets.
Try jewelry bags to protect your fruit from rats
The issue with utilizing protective bags (which I have used before) is the rat simply chews through the bag. They’re really meant to deter birds.
Great video and informative content as always. Just wondering how is your mamey sapote doing? Mine was doing great at first until suddenly all the leaves were fallen with black edges. Then when the weather started to warm up, the whole trunk died back gradually. Now the whole part above grafting point shriveled up. Do you think it would be due to post cold damage? Hope your mangosteen, rambutan and all other tropicals take off well😀glad to see the mangosteen is taking new growth since last time I saw you put it in the ground!
All of my Mamey sapote are doing well. Very little impact from the frost, though, mine has gone through many seasons of frost.
The Mamey sapote is one of the more frost sensitive sapote varieties.
In addition to the mangosteen, the rambutan seedling too is doing awesome. Both are enjoying the warm weather.
@@TropicalCentralValley That’s great😃 how many years for your mamey to produce fruits? By the way, if I remember correctly, you also have green sapote right? May I know if it is a seedling or grafted tree? Is it also from Mimosa? I heard somewhere that green sapote from Florida nurseries are grafted onto mamey rootstocks which are less cold tolerant. Do you have any recommendations about where to get trees that are grafted onto green sapote seedlings? Thank you 😊
Grafted Mamey sapote trees take about 5 years before it produces fruits. Once fruited, the fruit remains on the tree for an additional 15-24 months before it is ripen.
I’m unaware of any Green Sapote scion being grafted onto Mamey rootstocks. This process doesn’t make sense to me as the Green Sapote is quite frost hardy.
Mimosa Nursery in Los Angeles is where I purchased my grafted Green and Mamey Sapote trees.
@@TropicalCentralValley Yeah, I second with you on the rootstock thing. However, I have talked to several nurseries in Florida and the owner told me their green sapotes are grafted on mamey. Maybe using mamey sapotes as rootstock is common practice there. 🙂
That’s interesting. They may be able to get away with using the Mamey as a rootstock due to their warmer climate.
Interesting, how long do your trees stay dormant?
My deciduous trees go dormant from November to March. The tropical fruit trees do not go dormant, however, I give them the same treatment as I do not want them to grow during the winter season.
Where did you get the gadget for the fertilization?
Amazon - Chapin 4720 HydroFeed 2-Gallon... www.amazon.com/dp/B07HRH4B81?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
The one I got was a 2 gallon, for $87. They have a 1 gallon for $75. I’d spend a little extra for the larger one.
On the topic of pollinators... I have 10+ yellow/red strawberry guava's that flower non stop but have yet to set fruit (even though some of them came with fruit when I bought them over the past few years). Any tips to get them to set fruit? I thought they would be easy! My Tropical guava's seem to set fruit late as well which causes them to ripen the fruit in winter / spring of following year which makes them have much less sugar content since a portion of their development is when there is far less sun exposure.
That’s very interesting. Almost all of my guava trees (various varieties) have their fruits ripen between August to October.
The Vietnamese guava being the exception, as it’s fruit ripens around December.
Specific to your question, my Strawberry Guava is planted in full sun, getting about 12-14 hours of sunlight daily. This may explain why I’ve never had any issues with fruit production.
Guava trees are somewhat heavy feeders, preferring lots of water, particularly when they’re young.
Have you tried increasing your PK and water to your guavas during the flower stages?
@@TropicalCentralValley thanks for the tips. All my guavas are in full sun all day long. I do give a balanced fruit tree fertilizer 4-5 times a year and I have a 1ft deep mulch layer that I maintain. Maybe I will try a fert that is heavier in P and K instead of a balanced one.
Depending on the state of the tree, I would adjust your feeding regimen. When my trees are flowering or fruiting, I do not give it any nitrogen and instead, focus on giving it phosphorus and potassium.
Giving a flowering/fruiting tree nitrogen essentially makes the tree concentrate more on its growth than fruit production.
grow food not lawns. I agree lawns are wasteful. as always I enjoy your videos
Thank you. Only if more people get the message, particularly in my drought stricken state of California.
@@TropicalCentralValley you're leading by a great example. more will come.
Hello again I was wondering about if I can use Hawaiian plumeria leaves as a mulch for my newly planted mango tree ? My next door neighbor has a 20ft mango and Haas avacado that grow slightly over the fence into our yard. I was using his fallen avacado leaves for my 5 ft four year old Fuerte avacado tree. ? And can I use his fallen mango leaves around my new Kent mango tree ? I get a steady flow of say 25 mature brown leaves from each of his trees per week. Hey it's free mulch to me.
My 9 citrus trees also drop last year's leaves in spring . Should I leave them under the trees ? Thanks you
You absolutely can use the leaves. Leaves are actually much better than wood chip as they break down very quick, however, it still isn’t a bad idea to incorporate some wood chip into your mulch mixture.
One note conceding the leaves, make sure the tree from which the leaves fell do not show any signs of disease or harboring pests such as powdery mildew.
Like always great videos. Do you ever sell any scion of your trees?
Thank you. Unfortunately, I do not sell any of my tropicals, including cuttings.
@@TropicalCentralValley no problem thank you.
I personally think 9b is the golden zone with winter protection for some plants.
I completely agree, though not all 9b zones are equal. For example, I would love to switch our winter for other 9b zone regions such as Arizona or Florida’s.
@@TropicalCentralValley True! Florida Zone 9B is lush green while here in Bay Area, Zone 9B is very dry (and windy). I think Zone 10A in Fremont, CA is wonderful to grow topicals such as mangoes and also for plants that need some chill hours such as grapes, apples, jujubes. Compared to my backyard, my friend's backyard in Fremont is 3-4 weeks ahead in terms of growth spurts on plants in spring season.
@@TropicalCentralValley I'm in Rockport, Texas 9b. what's the biggest difference between my zone and yours? The humidity I'm sure.
Temperature, humidity, soil acidity, water contaminates, wind, heat index, among other factors.
Where did you say you get your mulch again at no cost?
Your local tree cutting companies give away truck loads of wood chips. The only thing is, you have to get the entire truck load.
Do you have or have you tried jocote trees?
I do not, though I’ve been on the lookout for one.
Great Video! Everything is looking wonderful! Where could I get that liquid fertilizer injector from? It looks really nice, it would save me a ton of time.
Amazon - Chapin 4720 HydroFeed 2-Gallon... www.amazon.com/dp/B07HRH4B81?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
The one I got was a 2 gallon, for $87. They have a 1 gallon for $75. I’d spend a little extra for the larger one.
@@TropicalCentralValley That's awesome thank you so much! Definitely the larger one! Do you fill the tank completely with pure liquid fertilizer or dilute it to some extent? Do you use it to only feed your container trees or your in ground trees as well? I want it for my container trees.
Specific to my use case, I do not dilute it, as the dilution occurs automatically when the fertilizer is siphoned into my automatic watering system.
Dilution really depends on how much fertilizer you wan to give your trees.
The system I have gives liquid fertilizer to all trees.
How can I grow papayas in fresno from
Seeds?
Papaya seeds germinate extremely easily, and given the number of seeds you find in a papaya, you’re bound to get a dozen or more seedlings.
I’d rinse the seeds first, then sow them into the ground/potting soil and lightly cover the top with a pinch of soil then water.
How did you convert from grass to mulch
You don’t. Grass clippings make poor mulching material as they break down too quick.
Here are some videos covering the topic of mulching:
Want Your Tropical Fruit Trees to Survive Winter - Mulch!
th-cam.com/video/5TxBzSYEM_I/w-d-xo.html
How To Turn Clay Dirt into Nutritious Soil for Tropical Fruit Trees
th-cam.com/video/rzF8sRmHdaM/w-d-xo.html
@@TropicalCentralValley how do you go from a grass lawn to much cover is what I ment. Cardboard?
Sheet mulching would be the best method.
Here’s a video that talks about the topic:
Starting A Tropical Fruit Tree Forest in USDA Zone 9B - Step 3
th-cam.com/video/MpCLprrjOKY/w-d-xo.html
Have you tried JADAM fertilizers?
I have not. I generally shy away from fertilizers that require heavy or additional processing such as JADAM and compost tea.
Instead, I try to mimic how trees are fertilized in their natural environment (e.g. animals walking through the forest while deciding to go to the bathroom).
@@TropicalCentralValley they can be extra work than buying Neptunes harvest etc. but IF needed it’s cheap/free and the most natural way to fertilize and/or for pesticides
Thanks for the tip, though, following up on my most recent video in which I discussed my various methods of organically feeding my trees, I’m seeing excellent results with very little efforts and costs.
Love the content! Make sure to cover your address next time. Weirdos out there!
Thank you. I’m actually not too concerned about my house number or my vehicles’ license plates. I work in network security and knows anonymity is nearly impossible.
Additionally, I have coordinated with many viewers that had stoped by to look at my trees.
The only issue i have when having a garden out front especially by the sidewalk is when people walking their pets or some wild animal urinate or poop on the plants/trees.
I completely agree with you. Although the naturist in me says the byproducts of animals onto my trees is welcome in the form of free fertilizer, I know not everyone agrees.
That being the case, I actually have planted numerous crown of thorne flowers surrounding the perimeter. The crown of thorns will definitely deter any canines or felines from stepping onto my mulch.
Additional, luckily, I’m surrounded by grass loving neighbors. Dogs and cats would much rather do their business in a nice lush lawn than pricky mulch.
I don’t know where this guy lives but he OBVIOUSLY doesn’t have natzi HOA 😂
Visalia, CA. Luckily, no HOA…yet.
Do you have an hoa?
Luckily, no. Though, I suspect, even if I do, may yard will likely pass as it does appear well kept.
I heard growing jackfruit not be easy in California
Seedlings grow surprisingly well. Grafted varieties will need to be babied.
I know that Alyssa has good luck growing tropical plants such as mango trees in a 9b climate zone here in Australia, she's located at Melbourne in Victoria :-
th-cam.com/video/p6zBnBd2Chk/w-d-xo.html
I live in a climate zone 10 which is just north of Sydney (Newcastle) in New South Wales in Australia.
Sometimes there's bigger extremes all depending upon where you're located,for example, Paradise valley in Arizona has a 9b plant hardiness zone but their weather is much more extreme than what Melbournes is, they have freezing cold temperatures below 0°C (32°F) overnight during winter time & temperatures reaching up to 50°C (about 120°F) during summer time.
Where Alyssa is located it seems to be the other way around because in Melbourne they seem to have 8 months of winter & 4 months of summer time but she grows big & beautiful mangoes there.
In Zone 11 they harvest the Kensington Pride mangoes in the Northern Territory at Katherine & in Western Australia at places such as Kunninurra in October which is in mid spring over here but she's harvesting them in mid to late autumn at Melbourne !
That’s awesome. When I was in Orlando, Florida a few weeks back, although their zone is technically 9b, they experienced virtually no frost. Much of the Arizona regions too seldom experience frosty winters.
Unfortunately for us in California’s Central Valley, we get the Tule Fog during the winter seasons. This bring numerous subfreezing events to our region.
Talking of Melbourne, which is 37 S latitude, I am at 37 N latitude (Bay Area, CA), so I follow what George (Fruitopia), Alyssa, Urban Bounty, etc are doing in their backyards! Plus, I get a 6 month advance planning (due to opposite seasons). :-)
Speaking of seeds , what can I do to persuade you into selling me a bunch of your papaya seeds . You have different types and I’m interested in trying to grow some .
Specific to papaya seeds, they’re known for their low success rate when it comes to transplanting them. For this reason, I always transplant as much as I can (about 25-30 seedlings). Most will die, however, a few generally make it.
If possible, I’d stop by your local grocery store and see what varieties they have. From there, scope out the seeds then toss as much as possible into a 3-5 gallon container containing 40% sand, 40% peat moss, 10% potting soil and 10% perlite. This germination method has never failed me when it comes to papaya.
@@TropicalCentralValley ok thank you . I’ll try one of the local Florida nurseries or Etsy for the papaya seeds ,For some reason I’m not a fan of the papaya I get from the grocery stores here in Fl , it has a strong after taste that doesn’t work for my taste buds. I know you have mentioned other types of papaya in your videos so I will explore my options and try some seeds.
See if the Hawaiian Solo or Sunrise (aka Strawberry) papaya varieties are available. They’re some of the best tasting.
Everything is dead by August I’m 9b, tropical trees won’t survive our winter, don’t like gardening in 9B
That’s interesting. That said, I did loose my durian, mangosteen and rambutan seedlings over the winter due to the malfunctioning of my heater.
Wind block
No HOA !?!?
Unfortunately, no. Maybe someday. It’d be nice to have some enforcement with some of my neighbors whose lawn looks like abandoned lots.
Can't grow many things in FL 9b
That’s interesting. Having been to Orlando recently, given the sandy loam soil, humidity and plenty of rainfall, I can’t imagine much difficulty with the growing of many tropical fruit trees.
That compared to our frosty winters, dry summer 115° days, clay soil.
@@TropicalCentralValley Oh, we can grow fruit trees but the selection of flowers is slim unless you get native plants. But the native plants/flowers look like weeds.
That is interesting. I know of some folks in the Jacksonville area successfully growing various tropical fruit trees, with fruit sets.
9b I he best
I completely agree.
I bet you can't grow spring bulbs. Paper whites and amaryllis are close enough
I prefer LED bulbs instead as they are quite energy efficient and lasts decades.
How long did it take your Longan tree to fruit? Mine has gotten to the flowering state the last two years (last year they grew to pea-sized little Longans) before they shriveled up and fell off.
All of my various grafted Longan trees, have bear fruit within the first year or two.
Your tree may simply know that it’s not ready to produce fruit. During blooming season, I typically increase my watering as well as eliminating nitrogen while increasing phosphorus and potassium.
@@TropicalCentralValley I think maybe I let the tree get a bit dry during a couple of the summer days. I'll try to make sure it stays moist in our 90-100 degree days. Thanks!
No problem. Trees with blooming flowers/fruits are quite sensitive to watering issues. The minute the tree feels it’s having difficulties obtaining water, it will start to drop the flowers/fruits.
For this purpose, it is imperative that the tree does not encounter any water stress.