Carambola, also called star fruit, comes from Southeast Asian countries, parts of Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Malaysia. However, it is cultivated majorly in subtropical and tropical areas, including Southern China, India, and the Philippines. The tree prefers a warm tropical climate and cannot survive freezing temperatures. If you belong to the northern countries where temperatures dip below the freezing point, consider growing dwarf specimens of star fruit in containers or under a greenhouse to help it thrive.
How to Grow Star Fruit?
Carambola needs warm soil to germinate, so Spring is the most suitable time if you are planning to grow starfruit from seeds. Do keep in mind that only the plump and fully developed seeds are viable for growth.
Sow the seeds in a well-draining peat-moss-based medium and place the pot where it gets ample bright indirect sunlight. Moisten the medium regularly. You’ll notice the seeds germinating in 7-10 days, which can then be transferred to a well-draining sunny spot in the garden.
Star Fruit Tree Growing Requirements
Sunlight
Grow Carambolas in the sunniest location of your yard. It needs a minimum of 6-7 hours of direct sunlight to grow fruits. If growing in pots, make sure to rotate it to provide even distribution of sunlight. Prolonged exposure to shade will exhibit plant growth.
Temperature
Native to subtropical areas, star fruits cannot survive if exposed to negative temperatures. The ideal fruiting range is 68-85F or 20-30C. Exposing the plant to below 65F or 18C is the surest way to cease its growth.
Soil
Starfruit grows in various soil types but cannot stand water-logged medium. Make sure your garden is rich in humus and moderately acidic, with pH 5.5-6.5 for optimal growth. If growing in pots, a blend of peat moss and sandy, loamy soil with a handful of perlite works best. You may also use a limestone-based medium to amend excess soil acidity.
Watering
The plant should be regularly watered when it’s young. Once established, water only when the soil is dry. Make sure not to overwater the plant, which might otherwise breed pests.
Star Fruit Tree Care
Fertilizing
Fertilize young starfruit with 10-10-10 fertilizer every month, except in winter. Mature trees should be fertilized at the beginning of the growing season. Additionally, you can apply compost or manure to improve the soil texture.
Pests and Diseases
Star fruit trees are prone to a number of pests, including carambola fruit flies, brown spots, Algal diseases, and even birds. Keep an eye on the younger plants and use a neem oil solution every month.
Harvesting Star Fruit
Harvesting star fruits is easy as they fall on their own once they are ripe. You may also pluck them manually and enjoy the juicy fruit.
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Video source: Noal Farm
