1. Description
Name: Grafted Custard Apple
Other Names: Sitaphal, Seethapazham, Sugar Apple
Botanical Name: Annona squamosa
Type: Grafted fruit tree – fast fruiting hybrid
Fruit Features:
- Sweet, creamy white pulp with segmented green skin
- Rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants, and minerals
- Popular in desserts and fresh eating
2. How to Plant
- Location: Full sunlight
- Best Planting Time: June to August (monsoon season)
- Spacing: 6–8 ft between plants
- Pit Size: 2 ft x 2 ft x 2 ft
- Soil Mix: Garden soil + compost + river sand for drainage
- Planting Tip: Graft union should stay above ground; water thoroughly after planting
3. Plant Size
- At Planting: 1.5 to 2.5 feet (nursery size)
- Grows To: 8–12 feet (compact and manageable size)
- Growth Habit: Small, bushy tree with spreading branches
4. Fruiting Time
- Fruiting Starts: 1.5 to 2 years (grafted variety)
- Fruit Season: August to November
- Yield: 30–50 fruits per tree in early years, increases with age
5. Plant Type
- Type: Deciduous, tropical fruit tree
- Best Climate: Warm, dry to moderately humid climates
- Lifespan: 10–15 years productive period
6. Caring Tips
Sunlight:
- Requires 6–8 hours of full sun daily
Watering:
- Water every 2–3 days for the first few months
- Once established, water weekly or based on soil dryness
- Do not overwater
Soil & Fertilizer:
- Use well-drained sandy or loamy soil
- Fertilize with compost or cow dung every 2 months
- Use NPK 6:12:12 or 10:26:26 before flowering
Pruning:
- Prune lightly after fruiting to shape the plant and remove dead branches
Pests/Disease:
- Watch for mealybugs, aphids – use neem oil or mild insecticide
- Prevent fungal diseases by avoiding excess moisture
