How to grow carob
Overview
Carob (Ceratonia siliqua) is a slow-growing, drought-tolerant evergreen tree grown for its edible pods. It thrives in hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it ideal for Mediterranean and subtropical Australian gardens.
Varieties
- Sicilian — Large, sweet pods; widely grown in Mediterranean climates.
- Santa Fe — Drought-tolerant with high yield; suited to Australian dry zones.
Soil Preparation
Carob prefers well-drained, sandy loam with pH 6.0–8.0. Amend heavy clay with gypsum and compost to improve drainage. Avoid waterlogged sites.
Growing Guide
Plant carob in full sun with well-drained soil, ideally sandy loam. Space trees 6–8 m apart. Sow seeds 2 cm deep in spring or early summer after soaking for 24 hours. Water deeply but infrequently once established; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Sowing
Sow carob seeds 2 cm deep in pots or direct in spring after soaking for 24 hours. Germination takes 2–4 weeks. Transplant seedlings when 30 cm tall; space 6–8 m apart.
Care
Feed carob with a balanced organic fertiliser in early spring and autumn. Prune only to shape young trees or remove dead wood; mature trees need minimal training. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Companion Planting
Plant carob with olives, figs, and rosemary. Avoid heavy feeders like citrus or vegetables near the root zone, as carob prefers low-fertility soil.
Common Pests & Risks
Scale insects and borers can attack carob. Control scale with horticultural oil in spring; treat borers by pruning infested wood and maintaining tree health. Monitor for mealybugs in humid areas.
Harvesting
Harvest carob pods when they turn brown and dry on the tree, typically in late summer to autumn. Pick by hand or shake branches; pods store well in a cool, dry place for months.
In the Kitchen
Use dried carob pods as a chocolate substitute in baking. Grind into powder for cakes, drinks, or snacks. Store pods in a cool, dry place for up to a year.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: overwatering or poor drainage; reduce water and improve soil. Brown edges: salt stress from fertiliser; flush soil with water. Stunted growth: lack of heat; ensure full sun. Pod drop: boron deficiency; apply borax. Scale on bark: treat with horticultural oil.