Grow Your Own Tasty Tamarillo Tree: A Guide to Growing Tree Tomatoes

Are you tired of the same old tomato varieties in your garden? Why not try something unique, like a tamarillo tree tomato? These small, egg-shaped fruits are known for their sweet and tangy taste, making them a great addition to any dish. With the right care and attention, you can grow your own tamarillo tree and enjoy fresh fruit straight from your backyard.

What is a Tamarillo?

Tamarillos, also known as tree tomatoes, are native to South America but are now grown in various parts of the world, including New Zealand, where they are a popular crop. The fruit is oval-shaped and about the size of a large egg. Its skin can be red or yellow, and the flesh can range from orange to yellow, depending on the variety.

Tamarillo tree tomato plant in garden.

How to Grow a Tamarillo Tree

Growing a tamarillo tree is similar to growing other tomato varieties, but there are a few key differences to keep in mind. Here are the basic steps:

1. Choose the Right Location

Tamarillos need full sun to thrive, so choose a spot in your garden that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Make sure the soil is well-draining and rich in nutrients. If your soil is poor, consider adding compost or fertilizer before planting.

2. Plant the Tree

You can buy tamarillo trees from a nursery, or you can start from seed. If you're starting from seed, sow the seeds in a pot in early spring and keep them indoors until they sprout. Once the seedlings are a few inches tall, you can transplant them outside. If you're buying a tree, dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and plant the tree so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil.

3. Water and Fertilize

Tamarillos need regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Make sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. You can also fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.

4. Support the Tree

Tamarillo trees can grow up to 25 feet tall, so it's important to provide support for the branches as they grow. You can use stakes or trellises to support the tree and prevent it from falling over.

Harvesting and Using Tamarillos

Tamarillos typically ripen in late summer or early fall, depending on the variety. You'll know the fruit is ripe when the skin is slightly wrinkled and the fruit gives slightly when you press on it. To harvest the fruit, gently twist the stem until it breaks off the tree. You can eat tamarillos raw or cooked, and they are often used in chutneys, sauces, and jams. They pair well with meat, fish, and cheese, and can add a unique flavor to salads and salsas.

Tamarillo fruit

Tips for Success

Here are a few additional tips to help you grow healthy, productive tamarillo trees:

1. Prune Regularly

Pruning your tamarillo tree will help it stay healthy and produce more fruit. Remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any suckers that grow from the base of the tree.

2. Watch for Pests and Diseases

Tamarillos are susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including whiteflies and powdery mildew. Keep an eye out for signs of infestation, such as yellowing leaves or distorted fruit, and treat the problem promptly to prevent further damage.

3. Harvest Regularly

Harvesting your tamarillos regularly will encourage the tree to produce more fruit. Don't let the fruit sit on the tree for too long, as it may become overripe and fall off.

4. Experiment with Recipes

Tamarillos have a unique flavor that can be used in a variety of dishes. Don't be afraid to experiment with different recipes and flavors to find your favorite way to enjoy this tasty fruit.

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