Cultivating Jujube Trees
Jujube trees are native to China and have been grown for over 4,000 years. Their long cultivation history may be due to a variety of factors, not the least of which is their easy cultivation and pest resistance. They may be simple to grow, but is it possible to cultivate jujubes in a container? It is feasible to grow jujube in pots; in fact, many apartment dwellers in their native China have potted jujube trees on their balconies. Interested in jujube grown in a container? Continue reading to learn how to cultivate jujube in containers.
Growing Jujubes in USDA
In USDA zones 6 through 11, jujubes grow well and enjoy the warmth. Despite being able to withstand temperatures as low as -28 degrees Fahrenheit (-33 degrees Celsius), they need very few chill hours to set fruit. But for the fruit to set, they do require a lot of sunlight. Growers can grow jujube in pots, though it’s often more suited to grow in the garden because they can shift the pot into full sun positions during the day. In fact, doing so might even be beneficial.
How to Plant Jujube Trees in Pots
Grow jujube in a half barrel or other container that is the same size. For optimal drainage, drill a few holes in the container’s bottom. Fill the container halfway with well-draining soil, such as a blend of citrus and cactus potting mix, and place it in a full-sun spot. Add 120 ml, or half a cup, of organic fertilizer and mix. Refill the container with soil by adding more dirt, then stir in 120 milliliters, or a half cup, of fertilizer.
Transplanting Jujube Trees
Refill the container with soil by adding more dirt, then stir in 120 milliliters, or a half cup, of fertilizer. Take the jujube out of its nursery pot and give the roots some room. As deep as the previous container, dig a hole in the ground. After placing the jujube into the hole, cover it with dirt. Assume that the tree graft is still above the soil line when you add a few inches (5 cm) of compost on top of the soil. Fill the container with water. Although they can withstand drought, jujubes require water to yield luscious fruit. Before watering, let the soil dry out a few inches (8 cm), and then water deeply. Every spring, put fresh compost and fertilize the area.
