Mamey Fruit Tree

Location: The Pouteria sapota is commonly called the Mamey Cuban fruit tree because it is the national fruit of Cuba. It grows into an exceptionally large tree that towers 40 feet when fully grown. It usually has a large central trunk and several huge limbs that give it an open appearance. In optimum growing conditions, the tree has been known to exceed 60 feet in height.

Keep in mind that Mameys are ideal for outdoor growing in zones 10 to 12 but can be potted up in zones 9 and below.

Avoid planting the mamey tree close to structures. Allow at least 30 feet of space between the tree and any building, fence or roadway. Plant the tree at least 20-30 feet from all other trees and structures to afford it adequate growth room.

Note: This product grows best in well-draining soil. When you receive your plant, you may notice small, white beads or rocks in the soil - this medium is added to increase drainage and keep your plant happy and healthy! 

Planting Instructions: Plant the mamey in a location that receives 8+ hours of sunlight per day. If the tree does not absorb sufficient sunlight it will not produce an ample crop of fruit.

The mamey tree will grow well in a wide variety of soil conditions and pH levels but will not tolerate wet roots. When the tree’s roots are exposed to excessively moist soil conditions for an extended time the roots quickly begin to rot.

Dig a hole that is 3-4 times the diameter of the mamey tree’s root ball and 3 times as deep. Most soil in tropical regions contains an abundance of sand, If the soil is overly sandy, mix the sandy soil with fertile garden soil at a ratio of 25 percent sandy soil with 75 percent garden soil or amend some peat into the native soil to retain moisture.. Place the soil/sand mixture around the tree’s root system and tamp to remove all air pockets. Mound the soil slightly around the tree’s trunk so it is about three to four inches higher than the surrounding ground level.

In areas where the water table is not sufficiently deep, the mamey tree might need to be planted on a five-foot mound of soil to prevent the tree’s roots from becoming submerged in water as the tree grows.

Staking: In areas that sustain high winds or tropical storms, stake the tree using a bamboo or wooden stake. Tie the tree to the stake using cotton or natural fiber rope so it does not damage the tree’s trunk. Check the rope every month to make sure it is not too tight on the tree’s trunk. Staking is typically only necessary for about 8 months to 1 year. To determine if your tree is ready to stand on its own, shake the middle of the tree. Providing there is zero movement from the base, the tree is ready to stand on its own. Leaving stakes on a tree for too long can be damaging, they will come to rely on these stakes for continuous support.

Watering: Water the mamey tree once every other day if the weather is warm and there is no rainfall. Keep the soil moist but not overly wet, mulching can be very beneficial in maintaining soil moisture. Be sure to keep a steady supply of water going to the tree during flowering and fruit set/development.

Fertilizing: Feed the mamey tree in March, July and September for the first three years using a 8-3-9 fertilizer formula. Follow the directions on the fertilizer’s label for application ratios. After the tree reaches four years of age, it usually does not require fertilizing to thrive.

In areas with calcareous soil, a foliar spray containing zinc and manganese should be applied every six weeks from March to September.

Pruning: When the mamey tree is young, it can be pruned to encourage three or four limbs to grow strong. Any damaged limbs should also be removed. Prune after fruit is harvested.

Pests and Diseases: The mamey tree is relatively disease and pest free.

Injury: The trunk of the mamey tree is highly susceptible to injury from lawnmowers and other gardening equipment. Great care should be taken not to damage the tree’s trunk or the tree may perish.