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Fruits

Acerola

Malpighia emarginata

Acerola, also known as Barbados cherry, is a small tropical fruit-bearing tree or shrub known for its bright red cherries that are rich in vitamin C. The fruit is typically 1-3 cm in diameter and has a tart flavor. Acerola is used in juices, jams, and dietary supplements due to its high antioxidant content. The tree is also valued for its ornamental qualities.

Calculate System for Acerola
400.00–600.00mm
Water Need
120 days
Season
30.00–60.00cm
Root Depth
25,000 kg/ha
Yield
20,000
Plants/ha

Growth Stages

Season: Mar – Aug (120 days)

Initial
Kc 0.400
30 days
Development
Kc 0.700
40 days
Mid-Season
Kc 1.000
60 days
Late
Kc 0.800
30 days

Acerola can be grown in various tropical and subtropical regions. It is sensitive to frost and requires well-drained soils. Varieties include the 'Florida Sweet' and 'Dwarf Acerola', which differ in fruit size and yield.

Water Requirements

Season Total: 400.00600.00 mm
Water Stress Sensitivity: High
Salt Tolerance: Moderate
Water Productivity: 15.500 kg/m³

Recommended Methods

Drip Irrigation90.00%Fixed Sprinkler70.00%

Soil Compatibility

Optimal pH range: 6.0 – 7.5

Sandy Loam
AWC100.00mm/m
Drainagegood
Drainage: Well-drained soils preferred
Organic Matter: 2.00%
Soil should be prepared with organic matter to improve fertility and drainage. Regular soil testing is recommended to maintain optimal pH and nutrient levels.

Climate Compatibility

Temperature range: 15.0°C – 30.0°C

Tropical Wet
ETo: 3.006.00 mm/day
Temp: 20.0°C – 32.0°C
Frost: none
Frost Tolerance: Low frost tolerance
Heat Tolerance: Moderate heat tolerance
Acerola thrives in warm climates and should be protected from frost. In cooler regions, consider planting in microclimates or using protective covers.

Planting Layout

100.00cm
Row Spacing
50.00cm
Plant Spacing
20,000
Plants per ha

Nutrient Requirements (kg/ha)

Nitrogen (N)150 kg/ha
Phosphorus (P)60 kg/ha
Potassium (K)180 kg/ha
40
Calcium (Ca) kg/ha
25
Magnesium (Mg) kg/ha
20
Sulfur (S) kg/ha
Schedule: Apply nitrogen in 3 splits during growing season
Organic Matter: 2-3% organic matter recommended

Yield Information

25,000
kg/ha
2.500
kg/plant
0.450
Harvest Index
Quality Factors: Size, color, sugar content

Design Your Acerola Irrigation System

Use our free calculators to plan water requirements, spacing, and system costs for your Acerola field.

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Related Guides

Acerola: Growing and Irrigation Guide

Introduction Acerola, also known as Barbados cherry, is a tropical fruit tree that is highly valued for its high vitamin C content. It is a great choice for growers looking for an economically viable crop due to its high demand in the market. In this guide, we will discuss how to grow Acerola and the most efficient…

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