Tips for growing passionfruit

[RosieW]

I would really love to get a passionfruit going, but haven't had much success. I know they're heavy feeders so i prepared the soil thoroughly.

First one I planted about 7 years ago, died (I don't think it got enough sun). But the root stock is STILL popping up all over the place!

I tried again late last year - this time in its own garden bed in a sunny spot (to keep my dog out mainly) - again lots of compost, sheep manure. It died too.

The horticulturalist at Bunnings said it sounded like too much or too little water.  

I'd love to hear if others have had this happen to them too and any stories about what they do for happy healthy passionfruit.

[hanspet]

Thanks for your advice, and kind words, Eric. I do hope the plants survive.

Regarding the potential calcium deficiency, I used this soil: Scotts Osmocote 25L Citrus And Fruit Premium Potting Mix, so do you still think it might be a calcium issue. If so, would this product help: Scotts Osmocote 500g Citrus and Fruit Controlled Release Fertiliser? I am just asking because I have this now, but happy to buy the other one you recommended, if it is better.

I am a bit unsure about how to control soil moisture... the recommended approach of sticking my finger in the soil doesn't convince me. I wonder if something like this actually works: Professional Soil Moisture Meter Indoor Outdoor Plants Hydrometer for Plant.

Thanks for the advice.

[EricL]

Hi @hanspet, 

Investing in a moisture meter is a good call as you will never have to guess if the soil has too much or too little moisture in it. Scotts Osmocote 500g Citrus and Fruit Controlled Release Fertiliser will definitely help, but please double check behind the bag on when its supposed to be applied.   

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[hanspet]

thanks, Eric. I will definitely buy a moisture meter, can you recommend one? Regarding the Scotts Osmocote 500g Citrus and Fruit Controlled Release Fertiliser, it just says it is used every six months. I havent used it yet, because I was told that the Osmocote citrus soil mix was enough. This soil says it has calcium, but not how much. So, the question is whether I should add more calcium at this point? and, should I try the OSmocote fertiliser or the one you recommended, Manutec 500g Trace Element Soluble Powder. I am not sure about the % of Calcium, the Osmocote fertiliser says it has 0.3% Calcium, 10% W/W. 

The drying edged of the leaves makes me wonder if it is a watering issue. I am being careful not to overwater them and right now they are getting water about once per week. Also, with water, is tap water OK? or what water should I use?

[EricL]

Hello @hanspet 

I suggest looking at the Brunnings 3 in 1 Soil Meter, it measures water, Ph and light. If you are not happy with the Osmocote or feel that it is not enough, I suggest using the Manutec 500g Trace Element Soluble Powder. In regards to tap water, its ok to use it on your plants. One other thing you can do is to gather your eggshells when you cook eggs and crush them to a fine powder and add it to the soil of your plant.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric