The pineapple guava (Psidium) belongs to the myrtle family and is at home in the tropical to subtropical regions of Central and South America, being particularly common in Brazil. The exotic plant can be cultivated very well in tubs and often even bears fruit after flowering between April and May. These are edible and very tasty. Although the plant is considered easy to care for and robust, it is not hardy in Central European conditions.
The pineapple guava tolerates slightly below zero
Slight minus degrees are tolerated
The pineapple guava is often described as "the most frost-hardy of all exotic plants" and can indeed withstand temperatures down to slightly below zero without being damaged. It has already been described on various occasions how individual plants have survived temperatures of up to minus six degrees Celsius or even more without any problems. However, these reports cannot be generalized, especially since with a tropical plant there is always the danger that at least the above-ground parts of the plant will freeze to death. You should also keep in mind that plants grown in containers are usually not as hardy as those that are planted out - since the protective layer of soil is missing, the roots are exposed to the cold and are damaged very quickly.
Overwinter the pineapple guava properly
The pineapple guava feels most comfortable at temperatures between 25 and 30 °C, which is why it is best kept in the winter garden and can be cultivated there all year round. But then you have to make sure that the plant gets enough light during the cold winter months. In addition to warmth, it also needs a place in direct sunlight. If this is not possible, a cool hibernation at temperatures between 10 and a maximum of 15 °C makes sense. It shouldn't be warmer under any circumstances, otherwise there won't be enough light in winter: As a result, the pineapple guava sheds its leaves. You should also note the following points regarding proper care in winter:
- Overwintering in an unheated room, in the winter garden or in a glass house is ideal.
- The temperatures should not rise above 15 °C.
- If it is warmer, you should install additional plant lamps.
- In addition, the winter location should generally be as bright as possible.
- Water regularly, but less often, even in winter.
- Before each watering, do a finger test.
- During the winter break, the pineapple guava is not fertilized.
tips
The fruits ripen about six months after flowering, often in late autumn. They are ripe when the skin has turned yellow.