Everything you need to know about tamarillo

 The tamarillo is an exotic fruit with a sour flavor and a shape similar to that of the tomato . Also known as the "tree tomato", the tamarillo is native to South America but is successfully grown in several parts of the world, including Italy. In this article, we will provide you with all the necessary information on the cultivation, properties and uses of tamarillo. Furthermore, we will show you how to buy tamarillo online with Frutt'it, a reliable shop of exotic products.

Identification, origin and diffusion

The tamarillo, scientifically known as Cyphomandra betacea, belongs to the Solanaceae family, the same family as the tomato, potato, aubergine and pepper . Native to South America, the tamarillo is widespread in countries such as Peru, Chile, Ecuador, Colombia and Bolivia. Thanks to its characteristics and unique flavor, it has become very popular throughout the world, and is also cultivated in subtropical areas of countries such as Rwanda, South Africa, India, China, the United States, Australia and New Zealand.

In Europe, tamarillo cultivation is intensive only in Portugal, but in Italy it is possible to find it in family orchards, especially in the coastal areas of the South, Liguria and the islands. The tamarillo plant is a shrub that can reach 5 meters in height and produces fruit for long periods of the year.

Botanical characteristics of the tamarillo

The tamarillo is a shrubby plant with a greyish trunk of semi-woody consistency. The leaves are large, intense green and heart-shaped. The tamarillo plant is also highly appreciated for its aesthetic appearance. The flowers are hermaphroditic, white-pink in colour, and develop in corymb-shaped inflorescences which bear an average of 10 flowers. Bunches of 6 fruits can be born from the setting of the flowers.

How to grow tamarillo

Growing tamarillo can be a rewarding experience, even for amateur gardeners. However, it is important to know the needs of the plant and follow some specific cultivation practices to ensure good growth and abundant fruit production.

Climatic needs

The tamarillo is a plant that requires a sub-tropical climate to grow and fruit properly . The ideal temperatures for the tamarillo are between 20°C and 30°C during the day, while during the night they can tolerate cooler temperatures around 10°C. It is important to protect the plant from frost and extreme temperatures, as they can seriously damage the plant and compromise fruit production.

Soil and fertilization

The tamarillo prefers well-drained soil rich in organic substance. It is advisable to prepare the soil with mature manure or compost before planting. During the growth phase, it is possible to apply organic or slow release fertilizers to encourage the development of the plant. It is important to avoid excess nitrogen, which could favor vegetative growth to the detriment of fruit production.

Tamarillo sowing

Tamarillo sowing can be done in a seedbed or directly in a pot, depending on the grower's preferences. It is important to use fresh, good quality seeds to ensure good germination. The seeds should be placed in a light, well-drained substrate, at a depth of 1-2 cm. During the germination phase, it is important to keep the substrate moist but not excessively wet.

Reproduction by cuttings

Propagation by cuttings is another common method for propagating tamarillo. It is possible to take cuttings from mature plants and root them in a suitable substrate, maintaining good humidity and stable temperatures. Tamarillo cuttings may take a little longer to root than sowing seeds, but are generally easier to achieve successful results from.

Planting distances

To achieve good growth and correct exposure to sunlight, it is advisable to plant tamarillos at a distance of at least 2-3 meters from each other. This allows the plants to have enough space to develop and promotes air circulation between them, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Irrigation

Tamarillo requires regular watering, especially during periods of active growth and fruit production. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not too wet, as excess water can lead to root rot. It is advisable to water the plant thoroughly and let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.

Cultural care

During the growth and fruit production phase, it is important to practice some cultural care to obtain good fruit quality and prevent the onset of diseases or parasites. It is advisable to carry out training pruning to promote correct structure of the plant and fruit production. Furthermore, it is important to remove damaged or diseased branches and regularly check for pests or diseases.

Tamarillo pruning

Tamarillo pruning is an important operation to promote growth and fruit production. It is advisable to carry out pruning in autumn or spring, after the fruit has been harvested. During pruning, you can remove damaged or diseased branches, reduce the density of the foliage and facilitate the penetration of sunlight into the plant.

The biological defense of the tamarillo

To protect the tamarillo from parasites and diseases, it is advisable to adopt biological defense practices. There are various natural methods to prevent and combat attacks by parasites and diseases, such as the use of repellent plant extracts, crop rotation and the use of beneficial insects. Furthermore, it is important to keep the soil around the plant clean and regularly remove weeds, which can represent a favorable habitat for parasites and diseases.

Parasites

The tamarillo can be attacked by various parasites, such as aphids, scale insects and whiteflies. It is important to regularly check for parasites and take preventative measures to avoid infestations. In case of mild attacks, natural remedies such as repellent plant extracts or soap-based solutions can be used to eliminate the parasites. In case of more serious infestations, the use of specific products may be necessary.

Illnesses

The tamarillo is subject to various diseases, such as powdery mildew, gray mold and leaf spot. It is important to monitor for disease symptoms and take preventative measures to avoid the spread. The use of correct cultural practices, such as pruning, irrigation and balanced fertilization, can help prevent the onset of diseases. In case of diseases already present, the use of specific products for control may be necessary.

Fruit harvesting

The tamarillo is ready for harvesting when the fruits reach their characteristic size and color. The fruits should be firm to the touch and easily detachable from the plant. It is advisable to harvest the fruits by hand, avoiding tearing or damaging them. The fruits can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, but it is advisable to consume them fresh to better appreciate their flavor.

Nutritional properties and uses of tamarillo

Tamarillo is a fruit rich in nutritional properties beneficial to health. It is a good source of vitamins A, C and E, which play an important role in strengthening the immune system and counteracting the action of free radicals. Furthermore, tamarillo contains minerals such as potassium, magnesium and iron, which contribute to the correct functioning of the body.

From a culinary point of view, tamarillo can be used in many recipes. It is great to enjoy fresh as a snack or added to salads, sauces and desserts. Its acidic flavor pairs well with white meats, fresh cheeses and ice creams.

Insights

To learn more about the cultivation of tamarillo and discover further useful information, we recommend that you consult specialized books on the subject or contact experts in the sector. You can also find courses and seminars on tamarillo cultivation, which can provide additional knowledge and practical skills.

Organic products to best care for exotic fruit trees

To ensure healthy and environmentally friendly cultivation, it is advisable to use organic products for the care of exotic fruit trees such as tamarillo. Frutt'it is an online shop specializing in the sale of organic products for gardening and the cultivation of exotic plants. You can find a wide range of organic fertilizers, manures and pesticides, which will help you take care of your tamarillo in a natural and sustainable way.

Buy tamarillo online with Frutt'it

If you are interested in buying tamarillo online, Frutt'it is the right place for you. Frutt'it offers a wide selection of exotic products, including high-quality tamarillos. You can order conveniently from the website and receive your products directly to your home. Frutt'it guarantees the freshness and quality of its products, guaranteeing full customer satisfaction.

In conclusion, the tamarillo is a versatile and nutritious exotic fruit that can also be grown in Italy. With the right cultivation care and the use of organic products, you can obtain a good tamarillo production and enjoy its delicious fruits. Buying tamarillo online with Frutt'it is simple and convenient, guaranteeing the freshness and quality of the products. Experience the unique taste of tamarillo and enrich your diet with this exotic delicacy.