How to Grow Graviola

Graviola tree (Annona muricata) grows in frost-free, tropical areas, but can survive in subtropical U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 through 11 if temperatures never drop below freezing. The tree produces large, soft-spined fruits with a sour flavor, and it is sometimes called soursop tree. The bark and seeds are toxic if eaten, and they can also cause eye irritation, so wear gloves and use caution when tending the tree.

Well-drained, sandy soil with a pH between 5 and 6.5 results in the healthiest growth, but graviola can tolerate most soils as long as they drain well. Graviola isn't salt tolerant, so avoid growing in beds exposed to salt spray from the ocean or with heavy soil salt content. The tree does best in full sun, but can tolerate partial sun. Branches easily break in high winds, so grow graviola in a protected area. Graviola is a narrow tree, so it only needs to be 8 feet away from other trees.

A graviola tree needs high humidity and consistent soil moisture, making it best suited to tropical and subtropical climates. Dry soil or drought conditions cause premature leaf drop. Graviola has shallow roots, so weed around the tree regularly to reduce competition for water and nutrients. Covering the root zone, which stretches from the trunk to the edge of the branch canopy, with a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch suppresses weeds and conserves moisture. Leave a 4-inch space between the mulch and the trunk. Graviola requires moderate watering. Water deeply so the root zone is thoroughly soaked every 14 days if it hasn't rained significantly. If the graviola begins to drop leaves, water more frequently.

Regular fertilizer applications result in healthy growth and fruiting. Fertilize graviola every three months in spring, summer, fall and winter. Use a balanced 10-10-10 granular fertilizer, sprinkling it over the root zone evenly and then watering it in after application. Apply 1/2 pound per tree during the first year and 1 pound in the second year. From the third year forward, apply 3 pounds per year. Divide the necessary fertilizer amount among the four annual applications.

Although not necessary, pruning in the first year right after planting can create a more attractive form. Disinfect shears and pruning saws by wiping them with an isopropyl alcohol-soaked cloth before cutting. Remove any low branches or suckers around the main trunk to train the tree to a single trunk. You can also cut out crossed or rubbing branches to help open up the canopy. Make cuts flush to a larger branch or the trunk. Further pruning isn't usually necessary, although you can remove dead or damaged branches at any time. Cut the ripe fruit from the stems with disinfected pruning shears when fruits lighten from dark green to yellow-green. The fruits fully ripen within four to five days after harvest.

Many diseases and insects may attack graviola, but generally they do not cause enough damage to to become a problem. Consistent watering and fertilizer applications, along with growing in the right conditions, keep the tree vigorous enough to prevent serious diseases or pest infestations. Anthracnose and brown stem rot can cause fruits, flowers leaves or stems to rot and shrivel, especially during times of high humidity. Cleaning up fallen leaves and cutting out dead and damaged wood at the end of the dry season prevents these diseases. Scale insects and fruit flies may also plague graviola trees, but rarely in numbers that require you to take action. If fruit flies are especially bad around ripening fruit, tie cloth bags around developing fruits to protect them.