Psidium guajava GUAVA (20 seeds)

Guava tree, or Psidium guajava, is a fruit tree belonging to the Myrtaceae family. Native to the tropical regions of North and Central America, it is a relatively slow-growing evergreen tree that typically reaches a height of 3 to 6 meters.

Its leaves are opposite, simple, and oval-shaped, measuring about 5 to 15 cm long. They feature a smooth, glossy texture dark green on top and lighter underneath and release a pleasant fragrance when crushed.

The flowers are large (2 to 5 cm in diameter) and solitary or in small clusters, consisting of five white or slightly pink petals with numerous decorative stamens. Flowering occurs in spring and summer.

The fruits are slightly oval berries, 4 to 10 cm in diameter, with green skin that softens as it matures. Inside, the juicy pink flesh is dotted with small, light brown, slightly rough seeds measuring about 3 mm in diameter.

- Uses:

Culinary & Economic: This Mexican plant is of great economic importance worldwide. The fruits are eaten fresh or processed into jams, jellies, and juices. It is a delicious fruit known for its health benefits.

Medicinal & Traditional: The washed leaves can be chewed or prepared as a medicinal decoction. In Africa, the Ga tribe of Ghana chews fresh leaves during ethnic ceremonies, which reportedly induces a state similar to mild alcohol intoxication.
Do not consume for psychoactive or medicinal effects; cultivate solely for the preservation of the botanical species.

Cultural: In the Philippines, the leaves are consumed during the preparation of Betel (traditionally composed of a betel leaf, lime, and crushed areca nut).

- Germination and Sowing:

• The best time to sow Guava seeds is in June, when the weather is very warm.
• Sow the seeds in a mixture of acidic pH substrate and vermiculite for drainage.
• Cover them with a few millimeters of substrate and pack it down firmly.
• Spray water over the top.
• Place the pots in a very warm, humid environment, such as a greenhouse.
• Germination begins 4 to 6 weeks after planting. When seedlings reach 10 cm in height, transplant them into individual pots.

- Substrate / Soil Type:

Guava tree prefers well-drained soil rich in humus and organic matter. A mix of potting soil, compost, and a bit of sand is suitable. The substrate should be slightly acidic (pH between 5.5 and 7).

- Exposure / Light:

The tree requires significant light and should be planted in full sun. A minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal for growth, flowering, and fruit production.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

It thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 20°C and 30°C. While it can tolerate slightly lower temperatures for very short periods, it will not survive below 5°C. It must be protected, brought indoors during winter, or planted in mild climates.

- Watering / Irrigation:

Watering must be regular, especially during the growing periods in spring and summer while the tree is young. The soil should be kept moist but never waterlogged.

- Multiplication / Reproduction:

Guava can be propagated by seeds or by semi-hardwood cuttings placed in a light substrate.