Hey Plant Lovers! We know you have a lot of questions, so wanted to create a space where we can post answers to your most frequently asked questions and link applicable videos from our YouTube channel.
What tropical trees will grow in Phoenix? Most sub-tropical trees, a few tropical trees and most stone fruit and citrus trees. The Phoenix area has an excellent, year-round growing climate. We have very little winter and not many diseases or bugs to deal with. Once you understand proper micro-climate, shading and winter protection, you can grow almost anything here!
What is the easiest fruit tree to grow in Phoenix? Mulberry! Check out this link to see a video: =56PnLU_GxUM&t=46s
Are tropical trees invasive? Due to lack of enough rainfall and poor soil conditions, tropical trees are non-invasive in Arizona and will not grow large in our desert climate. Roots will not damage foundations of buildings in any way.
Are tropical trees self-pollinating? Mostly yes. Some do better with a pollinator/companion plant, for example: Avocado, Mulberry, Passionfruit, Kei Apple.
Do I need to feed my trees? Yes! Plants are living beings and require nourishment in order to grow. In the wild, plants find food through mulch, compost and native minerals. Here in Arizona, our soil lacks many of the nutrients tropical trees require - therefore, we need to supplement our soil with the necessary ingredients to create a healthy, living soil that will support the tree. Not feeding your trees will result in failure. Interesting fact: healthy trees will not be as susceptible to bugs as bugs attack weak plants. Healthy, strong trees are also a bit more cold tolerant. See our Planting & Care Guide section for more information on feeding trees. We sell all of the necessary amendments required for proper planting and feeding.
Do I have to protect my trees during winter months? Most young, tropical plants will need some protection from the elements until established. Cold is our only real concern in Arizona. Most tropicals will required cold protection below mid-30s at least for the first 2-3 winters. This can be done through various means such as proper microclimate, container growing, mulching, cold frames and proper feeding. Click on the below link to learn how to protect your trees during winter months: =zGQ2wf3FmiE&t=10s
How do I protect my trees during summer months? Shade fabric, companion planting and nurse trees. Click on this link to learn how to build a shade structure: =Vs0zXT2ozKM
How do I plant a tree? Check out our Planting & Care Guide page for information and videos on planting.
How much do I need to water? Check out our Planting & Care Guide page for information and videos on watering.
Do I have to prune my trees? No, only if you want to.
What type of pots can I grow trees in? While technically you can grow a plant in any type of container, we prefer inexpensive, black plastic nursery pots. They are light, easy to move around and promote good drainage.
Why are my trees not producing fruit? Oftentimes it is because they are not ready to fruit yet or their microclimate and/or feeding needs have not been met.