pomegranate

Pomegranate (Punica granatum RED RUSSIAN) plants should be watered at least twice per week. The soil should remain moist but not soggy at all times, so it is important to be careful not to over water. If the soil dries out for more than a few days, deep watering is necessary. Ensure the soil is well drained and water until the moisture reaches 8- 12 inches in depth. During the warmer months it may be necessary to water up to 3 times per week, but during the cooler months watering once per week or every 10 to 14 days may be sufficient.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum RED RUSSIAN) plants need about 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight a day, but they can tolerate part shade or dappled shade as well. Placement in an area that has some protection from mid-day and afternoon sun will help avoid leaf scorching. The shrub will produce more flowers and fruit if it is given full sun, however, and the ideal environment would be a spot that gets at least 6 hours Sun per day, preferably in the morning and evening.

When pruning a Pomegranate, the general rule of thumb is to prune the tree lightly in late winter or early spring, before it begins to break dormancy. This is when the tree is most likely to recover quickly, with less risk of shock. Target any branches that cross or rub each other, any dead or dying branches, branches that are growing in an awkward direction, and any that appear overly congested and are causing a lack of air movement in the tree’s canopy. These types of pruning should be light and selective, leaving at least 2-thirds of the tree's canopy intact. However, if your pomegranate tree is overly vigorous and requires more aggressive pruning, the best time is mid-summer during the period of active fruiting. Always consider the consequences of heavy pruning before engaging in such practices. Since pomegranates bloom on new wood, heavy pruning will reduce and delay blooming and fruiting, so be sure to only prune what's necessary and remove no more than 20 to 25% of the tree’s crown at 1 time.