The term "pomelo" summarizes different varieties of the grapefruit. Citrus maxima - the real pomelo - originally comes from southern China and Southeast Asia and is still extensively cultivated in this region. We also have a pomelo available that was created in the 1970s from a cross between a pomelo and a grapefruit. Both varieties are now grown worldwide in the so-called subtropical "citrus belt" between the 20th and 40th latitude.
Propagating the Pomelo
In its subtropical homeland, the pomelo tree can grow very tall: the plant can reach up to 15 meters and develops a broad, sprawling crown. Branches of ungrafted trees have many axillary thorns up to two inches long. But with us you can usually grow your own pomelo tree from the seed core of a purchased pomelo without any problems. The pomelo - regardless of whether it is a grapefruit or a hybrid product - is very vigorous and also easier to care for than other types of citrus. The tree is less sensitive to cold (not frost!) and can therefore remain outdoors for a longer period of time. In addition to propagation via seeds, vegetative propagation via cuttings is also possible. In order to shorten the long youth phase of the tree, you should graft on Poncirus trifoliata, the bitter lemon or three-leaf orange.
Caring for a pomelo
Caring for the pomelo is very similar to caring for other citrus species, as the plants' requirements are almost the same. The pomelo
- needs a full sun, sheltered spot outdoors during the growing season
- needs regular but moderate watering
- does not tolerate waterlogging
- should be fertilized with liquid citrus fertilizer about every two weeks
- needs loose, permeable soil (citrus soil is best)
- and always a light location
- In addition, the pomelo should be cut at least once a year, it is very vigorous
Overwinter pomelo
Like all other citrus plants, the pomelo does not tolerate frost, even if it is otherwise less sensitive to cooler temperatures. In winter you should place the plant in a bright but not too warm spot and water it occasionally (but not too often!). In the winter quarters, temperatures between five and ten degrees Celsius are optimal. Basically, the following applies to all citrus plants and thus also to the pomelo: the warmer the plant is, the brighter its surroundings must be. Due to its sensitivity to frost, the pomelo should not be planted in the garden
tips and tricks
The New Zealand grapefruit, which is quite similar to the pomelo, is probably best suited for keeping in our latitudes. The "New Zealand Grape" has grapefruit-like, flat, wide fruits that are very mild. This tree needs significantly less heat than a regular grapefruit or pomelo and also ripens earlier.
IJA