Growing your passionfruit can be very rewarding under the right conditions.
However, home gardeners often encounter a common concern: the shrivelling of passionfruit on the vine. Understanding the potential causes and implementing proper care can help address this issue.
Why is my passionfruit shrivelling on the vine?
Before panicking, passionfruit should start to wrinkly slightly as it ripens. The skin of a ripe passionfruit typically becomes slightly wrinkled, and the colour may change to a more vibrant or darker hue, depending on the variety.However, excessive wrinkling or shrivelling before the fruit reaches maturity may indicate issues such as water stress, nutrient deficiencies, or pests. However, planting grafted passionfruit vines can help enhance resistance to pests, diseases, and varied climates.
Water stress
Water stress is a significant factor contributing to the premature shrivelling of passionfruit. Inconsistent or insufficient watering can lead to dehydration and shrivelling of passionfruit. Not to mention poor-quality pulp and not a lot of juice. Consistent watering, especially on hot days, is essential for the health of your fruit. Adding organic matter to the soil can also help the vine retain water, and applying mulch around the root system provides additional protection from the sun.
Nutrient deficiency
A lack of essential nutrients, particularly potassium, can result in poor fruit development and cause the fruit to shrivel. Ensure the soil is adequately fertilised to meet the plant’s nutritional needs.
Once upon a time, passionfruit vines were planted on top of a lamb’s heart or ox liver to gain all the nutrients needed to thrive. The best fertilisers for growing passionfruit include organic blood and bone fertiliser and aged chicken manure.
Passionfruit pests and diseases
Passionfruit plants are susceptible to various pests and diseases, such as aphids, mites, or fungal infections. All of which can affect the health of passionfruit plants, leading to shrivelled fruit. Regularly inspect the plants for signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate measures for control. Neem oil can be an effective and eco-friendly option for controlling pests.
Importantly, maintaining the overall health of your passionfruit vines is key to preventing the fruit from shrivelling on the vine. Address any potential stressors ASAP, such as water stress, nutrient deficiencies, and pest-related issues.
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