How to Successfully Grow Sweetsop Trees from Seed at Home
1. Select Quality Seeds
Use fresh seeds from ripe sweetsop fruit and rinse to remove pulp.
2. Prepare the Seeds
Soak seeds in water for 24 hours. (Optional: Lightly file the seed coat to help germination.)
Fill a seedling tray or pots with well-draining soil.
Plant seeds about 1 inch deep and space them 3 inches apart.
Water the soil and cover with plastic wrap for humidity.
Place in a warm spot (70-85°F) with indirect sunlight. Remove wrap once sprouts appear (2-4 weeks).
4. Transplanting Seedlings
Transplant seedlings to larger pots when they have two sets of true leaves.
Use 6-8 inch deep pots and water lightly after transplanting.
5. Caring for Your Sweetsop Tree
Sunlight: Provide 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist; let the top inch dry out before watering again.
Fertilization: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with balanced fertilizer after a couple of months.
6. Pruning and Maintenance
Prune to encourage bushy growth once the tree is 2-3 feet tall.
Monitor for pests and use insecticidal soap if needed.
7. Transplanting Outdoors
Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions over a week before planting.
Choose a sunny, well-draining spot with slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0). Space trees 10-15 feet apart.
8. Expecting Fruit
Be patient; sweetsop trees may take 3-4 years to bear fruit.