How to grow jujube
Overview
Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba) is a deciduous fruit tree from the Rhamnaceae family, valued for its sweet, date-like fruits and ornamental form. It thrives in hot, dry climates and is highly frost-tolerant once established, making it a versatile choice for Australian gardens.
Varieties
- Li — A popular Australian variety with large, sweet fruits and a compact growth habit.
- Lang — Produces very large, elongated fruits; good for fresh eating and drying.
- Shanxi Li — A heavy-cropping variety from China, well-suited to Australian conditions.
Soil Preparation
Jujube prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.5) with good drainage. Add compost or well-rotted manure before planting. In sandy soils, incorporate organic matter to improve moisture retention; in heavy soils, raise beds or plant on a mound.
Growing Guide
Plant jujube in full sun in well-drained soil; avoid heavy clay or waterlogged sites. Space trees 4–5 m apart. Water deeply but infrequently after planting to encourage deep roots. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress suckers. In cooler zones, plant in spring after frosts; in warm zones, autumn planting is fine.
Sowing
Jujube is commonly grown from seed; sow 1 cm deep in seed-raising mix in spring. Germination takes 2–4 weeks at 20–25°C. Direct sow is possible but transplanting is easier. Space seedlings 4–5 m apart. Seeds may need scarification for better germination.
Care
Feed jujube in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser (e.g., 8-4-6). Prune in winter to remove suckers and open the canopy for light and airflow. Thin fruit clusters if needed to improve size. Water only during prolonged dry spells.
Companion Planting
Jujube pairs well with other drought-tolerant plants like pomegranate, fig, and olive. Avoid planting near water-hungry vegetables or lawns, as jujube prefers dry conditions. Its suckering habit can be managed with a barrier or by planting away from other trees.
Common Pests & Risks
Fruit fly can be a problem in warm areas; use bait traps or netting. Birds may take ripe fruit; netting is effective. Scale insects occasionally appear; treat with horticultural oil. No major diseases in Australian gardens.
Harvesting
Harvest jujube when fruits turn from green to crisp brown and begin to soften; they can be picked fresh or left to dry on the tree. For dried fruit, wait until they wrinkle and drop. Pick regularly to avoid bird damage.
In the Kitchen
Fresh jujubes have a crisp, apple-like texture and sweet flavour; they are excellent eaten raw. Dried jujubes (red dates) are used in teas, soups, and desserts. Store fresh fruit in the fridge for up to 2 weeks; dried fruit keeps for months.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: overwatering or poor drainage; reduce water and improve soil. Suckering: normal for jujube; prune regularly in winter. Poor fruit set: lack of heat or insufficient pollination; plant in full sun and consider hand-pollinating. Fruit drop: inconsistent watering; keep soil evenly moist during fruiting. Brown leaf edges: salt burn from fertiliser; flush soil and reduce feeding.