Soursop Tree (Live Seedling)

Growing a soursop tree seedling (Annona muricata)—also known as graviola, guanábana, or guyabano—can be a fruitful endeavor in warm, tropical to subtropical climates. These trees produce large, green, spiky fruits with sweet, custard-like flesh and are valued for both culinary and medicinal uses.

Here’s a complete guide to help your soursop seedling grow strong and healthy:

🌱 How to Grow a Soursop Tree Seedling

1. Tree Overview

• Scientific Name: Annona muricata

• Common Names: Soursop, graviola, guanábana, guyabano

• USDA Zones: 10–12 (can be grown in containers in colder zones)

• Mature Size: 15–30 feet tall

• Lifespan: Productive for 10–20+ years with good care

2. Ideal Growing Conditions

🌞 Light

• Full sun is essential — minimum 6–8 hours/day

• Avoid shade, which reduces fruiting.

🌱 Soil

• Well-draining, loamy or sandy soil

• Slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5–7.0)

• Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged soils

🌡️ Temperature

• Thrives in warm temps: 70–85°F (21–29°C)

• Sensitive to cold: avoid exposure below 40°F (4°C)

• Young trees must be protected from frost and strong wind

3. Planting Instructions

📅 When to Plant

• Best planted in late spring or early summer in warm climates

🕳️ How to Plant

1. Choose a sunny location with room to grow

2. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball

3. Place the seedling upright and backfill with native soil mixed with compost

4. Water thoroughly to settle the soil

5. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds

📏 Spacing

• Plant at least 15–20 feet away from buildings or other trees

4. Watering

• Young seedling: Keep soil consistently moist, but not soggy

• Mature trees: Water deeply once or twice a week depending on weather

• Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings

• Avoid overwatering — can lead to root rot

5. Fertilizing

• Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 or 8-8-8) every 2–3 months during the growing season

• Incorporate organic compost annually for soil health

• Reduce feeding during winter or dormant periods

6. Pruning & Maintenance

• Prune in early spring to:

  • Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches

  • Encourage bushier growth and airflow

• Keep the canopy open for light penetration and pest control

7. Flowering & Fruiting

• First fruiting: Typically 3–5 years after planting

• Flowers: Yellow-green, waxy; may require hand pollination for better fruit set, especially in non-native areas

• Fruits: Large (up to 12" long), green, spiny, ripen in 4–5 months after flowering

8. Pests & Diseases

• Common issues:

  • Fruit flies

  • Mealybugs, scale insects, aphids

  • Anthracnose (fungal disease)

• Prevention/Treatment:

  • Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for pests

  • Avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal problems

  • Improve airflow by proper spacing and pruning

9. Container Growing (For Colder Climates)

• Use a large pot (at least 15–20 gallons)

• Use lightweight, well-draining soil mix

• Move indoors during cool months or when temps drop below 45°F (7°C)

• Provide grow lights if indoors for extended periods

✅ Quick Tips

• Loves warm, humid climates and full sun

• Keep soil moist but not waterlogged

• Hand pollination may be needed for fruit in non-native areas

• Protect from cold and wind, especially while young

• Use mulch and compost for root health and better yields