Spanish cherry (Mimusops elengi) is an evergreen tree that is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa and the Americas. The plant is known for its fragrant flowers, which can be white, cream or yellow. The fruits of the Spanish cherry are edible, but have a bitter taste.
1. Choosing a landing site
Spanish cherry is a light-loving plant that needs 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. The plant also tolerates partial shade well, but in this case the flowering will be less abundant. Spanish cherry does not tolerate drafts and strong winds.
2. Soil
Spanish cherries prefer fertile, well-drained soils with a neutral or slightly acidic reaction. Before planting, it is necessary to dig the soil to a depth of 20-30 cm and add organic fertilizers (humus, compost, peat).
3. Landing
Spanish cherries can be planted as seeds or seedlings.
Sowing seeds: Seeds are sown in open ground in spring, when the soil temperature reaches +10 °C. The seeding depth is 2-3 cm. The seeding rate is 20-30 seeds per 1 m².
Planting seedlings: Seedlings are planted in open ground in spring or autumn. Seedlings are planted at a distance of 2-3 m from each other.
4. Caring for Spanish Cherries
Watering: Spanish cherries need regular watering, especially in hot weather. It is necessary to water the plant abundantly, without allowing the soil to dry out.
Feeding: Spanish cherries need regular feeding. It is necessary to feed the plant 2-3 times a month during the growing season. Mineral or organic fertilizers are used for fertilizing.
Pruning: Spanish cherry trees do not require pruning, but can be done to shape the plant's crown. Pruning is carried out in spring or autumn.
Diseases and Pests: Spanish cherries are relatively resistant to diseases and pests. However, in some cases, the plant may be attacked by the following pests:
- Spider mite: the pest feeds on the sap of leaves, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Insecticides are used to control the pest.
- Aphids: the pest feeds on the sap of leaves, causing the leaves to become deformed and fall off. Insecticides are used to control the pest.
5. Reproduction
Spanish cherries are propagated by seeds, cuttings or layering.
Seed propagation: Seed propagation is carried out in the spring.
Cuttings: Cuttings are carried out throughout the growing season.
Layering: Layering can be done in spring or autumn.
Spanish cherry is used to create landscape compositions, landscaping parks, gardens and balconies. The plant is also well suited for growing in containers.