Growing Cupuacu – Part 2

In an earlier blog entitled Cultivating Cupuacu we discussed the type of growing environments that cause the cupuacu tree to thrive and bear its amazing superfood. In this blog post we will discuss transplanting a newly germinated seed, spacing requirements, maintenance and finally harvesting cupuacu.

Transplanting Planting Cupuacu

For the first two years, you will want to make sure your new cupuacu tree grows in a shaded area; thereafter you can move the young tree into full sunlight. Since cupuacu grows under the canopy of the rainforest, it is important to mimic its natural growing environment as much as possible. Many growers place their new cupuacu in growing barns with other species such as banana trees, different palm trees, rubber trees and many other rainforest plants. Initially the seedlings should be planted in planter boxes or pits that measure 15″x15″. The soil should have a mixture of manure and 100 grams of superphosphate. In most cases you can find superphosphate at your local hardware store or on Amazon.com (here is the link for your convenience). You will also want to use mulch around the trunk of the tree to control weeds and maintain appropriate moisture levels.

Spacing Out Your Cupuacu Orchard

Giving your cupuacu tree plenty of room to grow is essential for health root development. For trees propagated from seedlings use 21′ x 21′ triangles. For trees propagated by grafting, you may use 18′x 18′ triangles. You are encouraged to plant a diversified arrangement of other plants and flowers as this will help with pest and weed control.

Cultivating and Nurturing Your Cupuacu Tree

Any experienced Green Thumb will tell you weeds will hinder the growth of any healthy plant or tree. For that reason, it is important you keep the weeds at bay for the first three years. Mulching will help, but expect some manual labor. Try to avoid using herbicides whenever possible, or opt for eco-friendly alternatives. Another way to nurture your cupuacu tree is through pruning. Pruning will help keep the tree from growing out of control and focus the trees energies on fruiting. Any pruning done in the first year is to promote division of branches from the trunk and will give you a much fuller and greater yielding cupuacu tree. After the second you will still have to prune to create an even distribution of branches and cut away dying or diseased branches.

Harvesting Your Superfood

Five to six months after flowering, it is time to harvest your cupuacu. Harvesting is a manual task and you will need to harvest your superfood two to three times per week. The ripe fruit will fall to the ground, hence the importance of keeping your tree at a manageable height. Your cupuacu tree will gain in yields and stabilize five to six years after planting.