TAMARILLO CARE INSTRUCTIONS

1. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Tamarillos thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
2. Use fertile, well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Amend with organic matter if necessary.
3. Plant tamarillos 6-10 feet apart to allow adequate airflow and space for growth.
4. Best planted in spring or early summer.
5. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, increasing frequency during hot, dry periods.
6. Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
7. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. A 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer is ideal.
8. Feed with a high-potassium fertilizer during the flowering and fruiting stages to promote healthy fruit development.
9. Tamarillos are sensitive to frost. Provide protection during cold spells by covering the tree with frost cloth or moving potted plants indoors.
10. Mulch heavily around the base in late fall to insulate the roots from cold temperatures.

Additional Tips

1. Plant tamarillos with companions that benefit from similar care, like tomatoes or peppers.
2. Keep the area around the tamarillo tree free from weeds and debris to reduce pest and disease risks.
3. Provide a stake or support for young trees to prevent wind damage and help them grow upright.

By following these care instructions, your tamarillo tree should thrive and produce delicious fruit for many years.