Pomelo (Citrus grandis) is a greenish, tropical and subtropical fruit originally that is larger than any other citrus fruit on the planet (thus the species name – ‘grandis’). Though it is the ancestor of the commonly cultivated grapefruit (citrus x paradisi), the pomelo has a thick, hard-to-peel rind and doesn’t have a lot of juice. This Delicious fruit is used as fresh and is also used for making Sweets, desserts, and jellies. The pomelo fruit has the taste of grapefruit without much bitterness.

Understanding Pomelo

The pomelo, often referred to as the “king of citrus,” is the largest citrus fruit with a thick, green or yellow rind and a sweet, juicy interior. Native to Southeast Asia, this tropical fruit has found a comfortable home in Kenya’s diverse agro-climatic zones. Pomelos belong to the Rutaceae family and thrive in warm climates, making them well-suited for cultivation in various regions of Kenya.

It has a long shelf life that it can be transported to distant markets. The pomelo tree grows from 5 to 15 m in height and has low spreading branches with a canopy size ranging from 500 to 900 cm.
Its leaves are ovate to oblong with leaf size ranging from 5 cm x 12 cm to 8 cm x 20 cm wide when fully expanded.

Botanic Description

Citrus maxima is a tree 5-15 m tall, with a somewhat crooked trunk 10-30 cm thick; branches low, irregular and spreading. Spines up to 5 cm long. Young branchlets angular, often densely soft, short, hairy, and usually with spines

Leaves, compound, appearing simple, having one leaflet, alternate, glandular, dotted, ovate to elliptical, 5-20 cm long, 2-12 cm wide and leathery. Petiole broadly winged to occasionally nearly wingless, up to 7 cm wide.

Flowers fragrant, borne singly or in clusters of 2-10 in the leaf axils, or sometimes 10-15 in terminal racemes 10-30 cm long; rachis and calyx hairy; the 4-5 petals, yellowish-white, 1.5-3.5 cm long, somewhat hairy on the outside and dotted with yellow-green glands. Stamens 20–25, white,
prominent, in bundles of 4-5, anthers orange.

Fruit ranges from nearly round to oblate or pear-shaped; 10-30 cm wide; the peel, clinging or more or less easily removed, may be greenish-yellow or pale-yellow, minutely hairy, dotted with tiny green glands; 1.25-2 cm thick, the albedo soft, white or pink; pulp varies from greenish-yellow or
pale-yellow to pink or red; is divided into 11-18 segments, very juicy to fairly dry; the segments are easily skinned and the sacs may adhere to each other or be loosely joined; the flavor varies from mildly sweet and bland to sub-acid or rather acid, sometimes with a faint touch of bitterness.

Seeds few, large, yellowish-white and white inside; though some fruits may be quite seedy.

This citrus fruit (the largest), is known mainly as the principal ancestor of the grapefruit. The seeds produce fruit somewhat smaller than the current grapefruit, more like an orange, usually with up to 5 cm long spines if propagated by seed, and spineless if vegetatively propagated.

Pomelo is largely self-incompatible, and unlike other Citrus species, does not produce nucellar seedlings. Cross pollination and fertilization occur between pomelo and other species of the genus, giving it a greater range of genetic variability relative to other Citrus species. In most cases, the quality and quantity of production of pomelo is very low in farmers’ fields due to inferior trees grown from seeds.

Pomelo Varieties for Kenyan Farms:

Several pomelo varieties are suitable for cultivation in Kenya, each with unique characteristics. The most popular varieties include:

a. Chandler: Known for its large size and sweet flavor, Chandler pomelos are a favorite among consumers. This variety is well-adapted to Kenya’s climate and soil conditions.

b. Honey Pomelo: Recognized for its sweet and aromatic taste, the Honey Pomelo is an excellent choice for farmers seeking a high-quality fruit with a distinctive fragrance.

c. Red Pomelo: This variety stands out with its reddish-pink flesh, adding a visual appeal to the fruit. Red Pomelos are prized for their slightly tart flavor and are gaining popularity in the Kenyan market.

Ecological Requirements On Pomelo Farming In Kenya

a. Climate:

Pomelos thrive in warm subtropical and tropical climates. While they can adapt to a range of temperatures, the ideal temperature for pomelo farming falls between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Frost is detrimental to pomelo trees, so areas prone to frost should be avoided. Kenya’s diverse climatic zones provide suitable conditions for pomelo cultivation, with coastal areas and lower altitudes being particularly favorable.

b. Soil:

Pomelos are versatile when it comes to soil, but well-draining soils are crucial. Loamy or sandy soils are preferred, as they prevent waterlogging, which can be detrimental to pomelo trees. The soil should have a slightly acidic to neutral pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. Conducting soil tests can provide valuable insights into nutrient levels, helping farmers make informed decisions about fertilization.

c. Ecological Factors:

1. Sunlight: Pomelo trees require abundant sunlight for optimal growth and fruit development. Planting in locations with full sunlight exposure ensures that the trees receive the necessary energy for photosynthesis.
2. Wind Protection: While pomelos can tolerate some wind, strong winds can cause damage to the delicate branches and fruits. Planting windbreaks, such as tall shrubs or trees, can provide protection and reduce the impact of strong winds on the orchard.
3. Altitude: Pomelo trees can be cultivated at various altitudes, but it’s essential to consider the specific requirements of the chosen pomelo variety. Generally, lower altitudes and coastal areas with warm temperatures are more suitable for pomelo farming.

d. Water Requirements:

Pomelo trees require consistent and sufficient water throughout their growth stages. Adequate irrigation is essential, especially during dry periods or drought conditions. Drip irrigation systems are efficient in delivering water directly to the root zone, reducing water wastage and promoting water-use efficiency.

e. Organic Matter and Mulching:

Incorporating organic matter into the soil enhances its structure, water retention capacity, and nutrient content. Well-decomposed organic materials like compost or manure can be applied around the base of the tree, serving as a natural fertilizer. Mulching with organic materials helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. This is particularly beneficial in regions with high temperatures and intense sunlight.

Land preparation, spacing in pomelo cultivation: –

Prepare the land till fine threshing stage by 3 or 4 plowings and desi plowing. It also clears weeds from previous crops and levels the ground. The pits should be dug about 2ft deep and wide. In pomelo fruit farming, plant spacing should be maintained at 5 by 5m, or 7 to 7m which will accommodate approximately 100 to 150 plants per 1 acre of land. Mix the bottom compost in the pits or one-third of the topsoil which will be used to refill the pits after planting. If raw manure is used, it is recommended to delay the planting by 2 weeks.

An adult pomelo tree grows to a maximum height of 55 feet. Due to its large size, your distance should reflect at least 11 feet so that there is enough space for the roots to spread. If you grow several pomelo trees in a group, the limbs will bend due to improper spacing. The canopies eventually come together in a large crown that is difficult to prune and the lower limbs get more shade and the fruit cannot grow in this shaded area. Placing a maximum distance of 16 feet between the trees ensures that each tree has sufficient light and soil sources for optimal growth.

In sloping soils and stumbling plantations, the field can be prepared by cutting vegetation and clearing the immediate perimeter of the hills. Otherwise, the land should be thoroughly prepared by plowing. Pits or pits about 2ft deep and wide are then dug. Depending on the terrain and soil fertility, the distance from plant to plant is 5 by 6m or 5 by 7m. This is equivalent to a population density of about 80 to 130 trees per acre.

Propagation Methods for Pomelo in Kenya

Pomelo (Citrus maxima) cultivation in Kenya offers various propagation methods, each with its unique advantages and considerations. While seed propagation and grafting are commonly used, air layering stands out as a particularly effective method in Kenyan conditions.

a. Seed Propagation of pomelo:

• Advantages: Seed propagation is a straightforward method and requires minimal equipment. It allows for genetic variation, potentially leading to the development of new varieties.
• Considerations: However, seed-propagated pomelos may exhibit variability in fruit characteristics, making it less ideal for growers seeking uniformity in fruit quality.

b. Stem Cutting:

• Advantages: Stem cutting involves rooting a section of a healthy stem to create a new plant. It’s a relatively simple method and allows for the cloning of desirable traits.
• Considerations: Rooting success can vary, and it may take longer for stem-cut propagated plants to reach maturity compared to grafted plants.

c. Grafting:

• Advantages: Grafting involves joining a scion (desired pomelo variety) onto a rootstock. This method ensures that the new plant inherits the desired characteristics of the parent plant, offering uniformity in fruit quality.
• Considerations: Grafting requires skill and precision. It’s commonly used in commercial orchards to maintain the characteristics of established varieties.

d. Air Layering:

• Advantages: Air layering is a highly effective method for pomelo propagation, particularly in Kenya. It allows for the creation of a new plant without separating it from the parent plant until it has established roots. This method is particularly useful for producing a larger number of mature plants within a relatively short time.
• Procedure:
  1. Select a healthy branch on the parent tree.
  2. Make a small incision or remove a portion of the bark.
  3. Enclose the wounded area with a moist medium, such as sphagnum moss, and wrap it with plastic.
  4. Roots will develop within the enclosed area.
  5. Once sufficient roots have formed, the new plant can be separated and transplanted.

e. Grafting on Rootstocks:

• Advantages: Grafting onto rootstocks is a common method in commercial orchards. It allows for control over the root system and tree size, adapting to specific soil conditions.
• Considerations: Rootstock selection is crucial to match the desired characteristics of the scion with the rootstock’s disease resistance and adaptability to local soil conditions.

Choosing the Right Propagation Method:

The choice of propagation method depends on various factors, including the grower’s objectives, resources, and the desired outcomes for the pomelo orchard. In Kenya, where climatic and soil conditions can vary, air layering presents a promising option due to its efficiency and success rate.

Considerations for Air Layering in Kenya:

a. Climate Suitability:

• Air layering is well-suited for the warm and tropical climate of Kenya. The high humidity during the process enhances the success rate of root development.

b. Time Efficiency:

• Air layering can expedite the production of mature plants, allowing farmers to establish orchards more quickly compared to some other propagation methods.

c. Adaptability to Local Conditions:

• Air layering can be adapted to various soil types and local conditions, providing flexibility for farmers with diverse agricultural settings.

d. Skill Requirements:

• While air layering is less complex than some grafting techniques, it still requires skill and attention to detail. Training and guidance can enhance success rates.

Irrigation system to pomelo Plant

It is Very Important to Regular Watering Especially before flowering and after harvest.

Daily water supply needs to maintain the growth of new shoots and the growth of flowers and fruits.

Water immediately after planting to ensure contact with soil and roots and to prevent wilting.

For early flowering, irrigation is delayed until the dry season shows signs of wilting. The dried plants are then irrigated.

In the Case of the Maure pomelo plant, may need 150-200 liters of water per day during the dry period.

Intercropping & Weed control in pomelo cultivation

In pomelo farming intercrops like banana or any vegetable, crop can be grown during young plantation. Then any shade-loving intercrop will be beneficial. to get some extra income, Farmers should always use intercrops in the main crop.

The pomelo crop needs regular weeding to remove soil moisture and nutrient struggle. Covering the base of the plant can prevent weed growth by using the suggested weedicides.

Pruning in pomelo plantation

Pruning should be done 6 to 7 months after planting for branching. 4 to 5 branches that are Equally distributed in different horizontal directions should be kept and allowed to grow. This should be done by pruning at a distance of about 35 to 50 cm from the ground.

Although you can provide ideal spacing, pomelo plants are vigorously productive while healthy. It is possible that the pomelo left for wild growth will shade the nearby lemon tree and compromise its fruit-bearing capacity.

Fertilizers requirement for Pomelo | Pomelo fertilizer requirements

For good production, organic fertilizers along with chemical fertilizers are also more important, need to understand pomelo fertilizer requirements

Proper fertilization is a standard cultural practice in fruit production, especially with floral inspiration. Fertilizers should be improved every year according to the age of the plant. It should be placed in a pit at a distance of 6 to 9 ft from the trunk.

Foliage fertilizer is also useful for each new flush. It should be given in 2 doses, the first dose before flowering and the second 5 to 6 months later.

The recommended rate of 5-21 kg of organic and 4-14 inorganic fertilizers per plant per year increases with age.

Pomelo Cultivation Pests and Diseases

• In general, most of the pests and diseases that attack the citrus crop are also found in pomelo cultivation. there is under some Pests and diseases found in pomelo cultivation.
• Pumelo major disease is bacterial cancer caused by Xanthomonas citri.
• Both fruits and leaves are also infected by scabs caused by Elsino foci.
• Fruit bagging is a recent innovation to prevent serious damage caused by pests and diseases.
• All lemon pests also attack pomelo plants.
• Oily spots appear on leaves and fruits, which later turn brown and corky.
• Other diseases are root rot, gumosis on the stem, and brown rot of the fruit, all caused by Phytophthora fungus.
• Control methods include dissolving and burning severely infected plants, so as not to spread.
• For the control of fungal diseases, frequent spraying of chemical fungicides is recommended.
• Soot mold can be prevented by proper pest control
• These include common leafminers (Phylochnistis citrela), leaf-eating caterpillars, fruit-eating caterpillars (Citripestis sp), scales, red mites, and fruit flies, nematodes, and rats.

Health Benefits of Pomelo Fruit

Some of the health benefits of pomelo fruit are as follows.

1. It is easy to add Your diet
2. Pomelo fruit helps prevent the common cold and flu.
3. Pomelo fruit helps prevent anemia
4. Pomelo fruit prevents UI (Urine Infection).
5. Pomelo fruit promotes healthy teeth and gums.
6. Pomelo fruit regulates blood pressure levels.
7. Pomelo fruit helps in weight loss.
8. Pomelo fruit helps to heal wounds.

Harvesting & Production in Pomelo Plantation

Generally, pomelo fruits are ready for harvest in 6 months to 7 months from the fruit set. Pomelo is harvested when it is freshly ripe. By sorting fresh pomelo, they are sold to traders or processing companies for domestic and export purposes. This change starts from the tip of the fruit and goes to the stalk.

Fruits should be controlled according to the age of the plant. For example, more than 50 fruits can grow on young trees. Normally, the Production of any crop depends on the variety, cultivation methods & climatic conditions. An average of 85 to 110 fruits can be obtained per tree/year or 18 tons/acre per year.

Pomelo Production Per Acre

The expected yields for pomelo production can vary based on several factors, including the variety of pomelo, climate conditions, orchard management practices, and soil fertility.

Note: These are approximate values, and actual yields may vary. Pomelo trees typically start producing significant yields from the third year onwards.

Important Notes:

These are approximate values and actual yields can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:

• Variety: Different pomelo varieties have different yield potentials.
• Climate: Pomelos thrive in warm, humid climates with well-distributed rainfall. Suboptimal conditions will impact yields.
• Soil: Pomelos require well-drained, fertile soil for optimal growth and production.
• Management practices: Proper cultural practices like irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease control, and pruning are crucial for maximizing yields.
• Tree age and maturity: Pomelo trees generally start bearing fruit in year 3-4 and reach peak production around year 7-8, maintaining relatively stable yields until year 12-15.

Cost Of Pomelo Production Per Acre

Estimating the cost of pomelo production per acre involves considering various factors, including initial establishment costs, ongoing orchard management expenses, and potential unexpected costs. The following is a breakdown of potential costs involved in pomelo production per acre. Keep in mind that these are general estimates, and actual costs may vary based on specific circumstances and local conditions.

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/farmerstrend
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FarmersTrend
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmers_trend/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/farmers-trend-51b54412a/
Google Business: https://business.google.com/posts/l/09910947938669691805
WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va5x5WAHAdNVua4abH0m
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCspvj-j-sO0wGVevKIe_Tg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/farmerstrend
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farmerstrend2?lang=en
https://farmerstrend.co.ke/

Do you have any questions, suggestions, or other contributions? Kindly use the comment box provided below for all your contributions. You are also encouraged to please kindly share this article with others you feel can benefit from this information if found useful enough as we may not be able to reach everyone at the same time. Thank you so much for sharing!

Subscribe To Our YouTube Videos

Ginger Farming In Kenya: The Current State & Statistics of the Industry

The Current State of Jackfruit Farming in Kenya

Garlic Farming in Kenya: A Lucrative Endeavor for Farmers

The Current State of Rabbit Farming In Kenya

Guava Farming in Kenya: The Silent Money Making Fruit Farming

The Current State Of Cucumber Farming In Kenya

The Current State of Grapes Farming in Kenya

Courgette (Zucchini) Farming in Kenya: A Golden Opportunity for Small-Scale Farmers

Poultry Farming in Kenya: A Lucrative Venture for Youth Empowerment

Load More... Subscribe To Our Videos...