Growing pomegranates from seed is a rewarding yet patient process that can yield delicious fruits in your own backyard. While you can purchase an established tree from a nursery, starting from seed is a great way to grow a pomegranate tree and enjoy the satisfaction of nurturing it from the ground up.
Pomegranates are hardy in USDA zones 7-11 and thrive in warm, sunny climates. If you live in a colder area, consider growing a dwarf variety in a pot, which can be moved indoors during the winter. Here’s how you can plant and grow pomegranates from seed, with a few tips for success.
Choosing Seeds
You can start your pomegranate tree with seeds from store-bought fruit, but it’s better to use seeds from organic pomegranates, as they’re more likely to be viable. When extracting seeds, remove the fleshy red coating (called the aril) from the seeds and allow them to dry for a couple of days before planting.
Preparing the Soil
Pomegranates prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil. For sowing seeds, use a high-quality seed starter mix. When transplanting seedlings into larger pots or the ground, make sure the soil is rich in nutrients and drains well to prevent root rot.
Planting the Seeds
Start by planting pomegranate seeds indoors. Fill a seed tray with the seed starter soil and plant the seeds about half an inch to one inch deep. To ensure the best chances of germination, space the seeds a couple of inches apart. Water the seeds thoroughly but avoid waterlogging the soil, which can lead to mold or rot.
Light and Temperature
Pomegranate seeds require warm conditions to germinate. Aim for temperatures between 75-85°F, and provide plenty of bright light. A south-facing windowsill or a grow light can be ideal for promoting growth. If necessary, use a seedling heat mat to maintain consistent warmth for optimal germination.
Watering and Care
Keep the soil moist but not soaked, ensuring that it does not dry out completely. Use a moisture meter to monitor the soil’s condition. Pomegranate seeds typically sprout within 30-40 days. Once they do, continue providing bright light, warmth, and consistent moisture. After about five weeks, your seedlings should be ready for transplanting.
Transplanting Seedlings
Once the seedlings have grown to about 4-6 inches tall, they can be transplanted into larger pots or the ground. When planting outdoors, choose a location that receives full sun, as pomegranates need plenty of sunlight to thrive. Ensure the area is well-aerated and protected from strong winds.
For the first year, it’s essential to water the young plants regularly to encourage strong root growth. After that, you can reduce watering to every 10-14 days, depending on the climate. Pomegranates are drought-tolerant once established but appreciate a good soaking now and then.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pomegranates can take anywhere from three to five years to bear fruit. While they’re growing, make sure to prune any dead or diseased branches and encourage a healthy structure by cutting back overgrown stems. This will help the plant focus its energy on producing fruit once it matures.
Harvesting Fruit
Pomegranates typically ripen in the fall, turning a deep red or purple color when they’re ready for harvest. To harvest, cut the fruit from the tree carefully with a sharp knife. Open the fruit to reveal the seeds, or arils, and enjoy the sweet, juicy rewards of your hard work.
Growing a pomegranate tree from seed requires patience and care, but with the right conditions, it’s possible to enjoy a bountiful harvest of homegrown pomegranates in a few years’ time.
