Tamarillo Lairds Large

A robust tamarillo variety producing large, red fruit with excellent flavour.

1. Choosing the Right Location

• Sunlight: Requires full sun to thrive and produce a high yield of fruit.
• Soil: Prefers fertile, well-drained soil with good organic matter.
• Spacing: Space trees 2–3 metres apart for adequate growth.

2. Planting Time

• Best Time to Plant: Spring (September–October) after the last frost.

3. Preparing the Planting Site

• Soil Preparation: Work compost or well-rotted manure into the soil.
• Digging the Hole: Create a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.

4. Planting

• Plant Placement: Position the tree with the root collar level with the soil surface.
• Support: Stake young plants to protect them from wind.

5. Watering and Fertilising

• Watering: Water deeply and regularly during dry spells to maintain even moisture.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring and after fruiting.

6. Mulching and Maintenance

• Mulching: Use bark or straw mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Pruning: Light pruning to remove damaged branches and maintain shape.

7. Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Monitor for aphids or whiteflies; treat as necessary with organic sprays.
• Diseases: Ensure proper soil drainage to avoid root rot.

8. Winter Care

• Hardiness: Frost-sensitive; protect young trees with mulch or frost cloth.

9. Common Uses

• Produces large, red fruit ideal for fresh eating or cooking.