Hi network members,
I was wondering if people have principles or tips for successfully caring for juvenile fruit trees in the tropics. I am finding with the extreme stresses we face in Florida (High UV, monsoonal climate extremes-wet and dry season, freeze events, hurricanes), we have a lot of losses, even in 3-5 year old trees. Once they are mature they do great weathering different situations, but it is really discouraging to lose young trees that several people have spent a lot of time on.
Thanks for your expertise in advance!
In our experience in SW FL native oak overstory has made all the difference for establishment without irrigation.
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Yes it is very discouraging. I feel that pain. My answer is two-part:
First, building on Prop_Specialist’s comment, companion planting is very helpful. Juvenile trees don’t need full sun and can benefit from fast growing species nearby. Think syntropic style.
Secondly, loss is also part of the game. I plant many times more densely than what is recommended for when the trees are mature.