Passion fruit
Q. I have one pomegranate tree and it blossoms well. The problem is that much of the blossom falls and many of the fruit which sets fall too. The few fruit left split before maturity and are blackish inside. What is the cause of these problems and how to resolve them? Additionally, when and how the tree should be pruned?
A. So many people have this problem with pomegranates yet the solution is so simple. Basically, it is all down to maintaining a regular watering routine. Pomegranate trees, when in blossom, when setting or developing their luscious fruit, need plenty of water and if they don’t get it, they have a tendency to shed flowers and fruit in protest. Never let the soil completely dry out around the tree roots at any point from blossom through to harvesting the fruit. This is not to say that the soil should be drowned — it shouldn’t, as it can cause problems such as root rot — nicely dampish will do just fine. Mulching around the tree helps conserve this essential moisture during hot weather.
Depending on how water retentive the soil is, water every two or three days throughout this crucial period. Allowing the soil to dry out and then flooding it, does more harm than good. The thirsty tree will take up water at a faster rate than developing fruit can deal with, while too much water all at once causes fruit to split. Splitting is also common after rains and in periods of extreme humidity. The moment a pomegranate splits, be it immature or mature, air borne-pathogens get inside, and hence the black mould appears. Regular watering in a sensible amount is the solution. Pomegranate trees do not require pruning other than the careful cutting away of any dead or diseased branches / twigs and this is best done over the winter season.
Take advantage of two spring seasons in the country and grow flowers that will bloom longer
Q. I plan on creating a rooftop garden and was thinking about including grapevines but you have written, in a past column, that grapevines should be transplanted during late winter and I want something right now. Can you suggest other suitable plants? I live in Okara and the temperature is almost the same as in Lahore or slightly higher.
A. Fruiting vines, of any kind, should not be transplanted when in full growth, in blossom or when bearing fruit. All are best transplanted during the winter months when they are resting. This applies to Passiflora edulis, (passion fruit) and to kiwi fruit as well as to grapes. Please be patient on this front and wait until the correct transplanting season comes around. In the scorching heat of the summer months — this heat is magnified on unprotected rooftops — it is unwise to transplant even flowering vines as they may simply shrivel up and die. It is best if you keep your project on hold until late autumn when cool weather moves in and then to put the infrastructure, climbing supports for instance, in place ready for a major transplanting season come winter. I understand that you are eager to make a start but it is really best to wait. Meanwhile, to keep your morale up, put some seasonal pot plants in place and enjoy those as much as you possibly can.