Kalapati Chiku (Saphota) Fruit Plant

Original price was: ₹951.00.Current price is: ₹651.00.

Kalapati Chiku (Sapota) Fruit Plant Details

  • Botanical Name:
    Manilkara zapota
  • Common Names:
    Kalapati Chiku, Sapota, Sapodilla, Naseberry.
  • Fruit Type:
    Round to oval-shaped fruits with rough, brown skin and sweet, grainy pulp inside.
  • Fruit Color:
    Brown exterior; the flesh is creamy brown with black seeds.
  • Fragrance:
    The ripe fruit has a mild, sweet aroma.
  • Growth Habit:
    • Type: Evergreen tree.
    • Height: 30–50 feet (10–15 meters) in its natural environment; smaller in home gardens or with pruning.
    • Spread: Dense canopy with oval-shaped, dark green leaves.
    • Lifespan: Long-lived, productive for several decades.
  • Other Details:
    • Native Habitat: Originates from Central America and Mexico, thriving in tropical and subtropical climates.
    • Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 9–12.
    • Soil: Prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
    • Light: Requires full sun for optimal growth and fruit production.

Out of stock

Planting Tips for Kalapati Chiku (Sapota) Plant

  1. Site Selection:
    • Choose a location with full sun exposure.
    • Allow enough space for the tree to grow and spread its canopy.
  2. Soil Preparation:
    • Ensure well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.
    • Avoid waterlogged areas, as the plant is sensitive to standing water.
  3. Planting Time:
    • Plant during the rainy season or early spring for best results.
  4. Planting Process:
    • Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball.
    • Place the plant in the hole with the root collar at ground level.
    • Backfill with soil and water thoroughly to settle the roots.
  5. Watering:
    • Water regularly during the first year to establish roots.
    • Mature plants are drought-tolerant but benefit from consistent watering during flowering and fruiting.
  6. Fertilizing:
    • Use a balanced fertilizer rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
    • Apply compost or organic manure twice a year for better yield.
  7. Pruning:
    • Prune young plants to shape the tree and remove weak or dead branches.
    • Regular pruning improves air circulation and light penetration.
  8. Pest and Disease Control:
    • Common Pests: Mealybugs, aphids, and fruit flies. Apply neem oil or appropriate insecticides to manage infestations.
    • Diseases: Anthracnose or root rot in poorly drained soil. Use fungicides and ensure proper drainage.
  9. Cold Protection:
    • Protect young plants from frost by mulching around the base or covering them during cold snaps.
  10. Harvesting:
    • Fruits are ready to harvest when they are fully mature but still firm.
    • Ripen off the tree until soft before consuming.

Benefits and Uses:

  • Culinary: Consumed fresh, used in milkshakes, desserts, or jams due to its rich, sweet flavor.
  • Nutritional: High in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, making it a healthy fruit choice.
  • Medicinal: Used in traditional remedies for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

The Kalapati Chiku Plant is a productive, easy-to-grow fruit tree, perfect for home gardens and orchards, offering delicious fruits year-round.

“Discover more fruit plant care tips on PlantsInfo!”