Tamarillo Bold Gold has clusters of pink fragrant flowers that appear in spring within 18 months from planting, followed by large golden fruit which is sweet and less acidic than the red varieties.
Tamarillo Bold Gold is a fast growing plant with large heart shaped leaves that are soft and hairy, reaching a size of 3m x 2m.
Provide a warm, sheltered sunny position with protection from strong winds and hard frosts. Tamarillo prefers well drained site with good moisture content and high in organic matter. Apply three applications of fertiliser during the growing season. One before pruning, second one month later and the third in February to help fruit development.
Pollination are self-fertile. Harvest - May to July.
Once your plant reaches 1 metre tall take the tip out to encourage branching and stopping the plant growing too tall so you can not reach the fruit. Frosts will naturally prune your tree. After the frost, remove old and dead wood. In areas of no frosts you will need to manually prune back growth to prevent over crowding. Always remember fruit is formed on the new spring growth, therefore a hard prune will maintain desired shape, size and maximise next seasons fruit.
Tamarillos are susceptible to aphids and whitefly, consider companion planting with basil to repel pests.
