How to Sow and Grow Pomegranates

Pomegranates are a vibrant, exotic fruit that many associate with warm Mediterranean climates, but did you know you can grow them in the UK? While the UK’s temperate climate may not seem ideal for such a heat-loving tree, with a bit of care and the right conditions, you can successfully grow pomegranate trees in your garden or greenhouse. Here’s everything you need to know to sow, grow, and harvest your own pomegranates.

Selecting the Right Location

Pomegranates need full sun to thrive, so choosing a sunny spot is key. Ideally, plant your pomegranate tree in a south-facing location where it will receive at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. If you’re growing them in the ground, a sheltered spot near a wall or fence can help protect the tree from strong winds, especially in colder months.

If you live in a cooler part of the UK, or if you’re growing a pomegranate in a container, you might want to consider bringing it indoors or into a greenhouse during the colder months. Pomegranates are not frost-tolerant, and even a light frost can damage the tree or kill the fruit.

Growing Pomegranates from Seed

Growing your own pomegranate tree from seed can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here’s how you can do it:

Stratify the Seeds (Optional)

Pomegranate seeds benefit from a process called “cold stratification,” which mimics winter conditions and helps break seed dormancy. To do this:

• Place the cleaned seeds in a damp paper towel and put them in a plastic bag.
• Store the bag in the fridge for about 3–4 weeks.

Sow the Seeds

After the stratification period, it’s time to plant. Fill a small seed tray or pot with well-draining compost. Make small holes about 1-2 cm deep and place 2–3 seeds in each hole. Cover with a thin layer of compost and water gently.

Provide Warmth and Light

Place the tray or pot in a warm spot (ideally 20–25°C) with plenty of indirect sunlight. Pomegranate seeds can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks to germinate, so be patient.

Transplanting

Once the seedlings have grown large enough and the risk of frost has passed, you can transplant them into larger pots or directly into your garden. Be sure to space them at least 1.5–2 metres apart, as pomegranate trees can grow quite large.

Caring for Your Pomegranate Tree

Once your pomegranate tree is established, it requires minimal care but benefits from regular attention. Here’s how to care for it:

Watering

Pomegranate trees are drought-tolerant once mature, but they still need regular watering during the growing season. Be sure to water deeply, especially in dry spells, but avoid overwatering. Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot.

Feeding

Pomegranates don’t require heavy feeding, but applying a balanced feed in spring can boost growth and fruiting. Avoid feed in late autumn, as this can encourage new growth that may be damaged by winter cold.

Pruning

Pomegranate trees benefit from occasional pruning. Remove dead or damaged branches, and shape the tree to allow light and air to reach the centre. Pruning in early spring is the best time before new growth begins.

Winter Protection

During the UK’s colder months, pomegranate trees in pots should be moved to a sheltered, frost-free location, such as a greenhouse or conservatory. If you’ve planted your tree in the ground, consider wrapping the trunk with fleece or burlap to protect it from frost, or use cloches to protect young plants.

Harvesting your Pomegranates

Pomegranates typically take around 3 to 4 years to produce fruit, though some may fruit sooner. You’ll know they are ripe when the fruit has turned a deep red, and the skin feels firm and slightly wrinkled. Gently press the fruit with your thumb—if it feels soft, it’s likely ripe and ready for harvest.

To harvest, simply cut the pomegranate from the tree using a sharp knife, leaving a small portion of the stem attached to the fruit.

While growing pomegranates in the UK can be a challenge, it’s definitely achievable with the right care and attention. By choosing the right variety, selecting the best location, and providing protection during the colder months, you can enjoy the beauty of a pomegranate tree in your garden. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about harvesting your own homegrown pomegranates—so why not give it a try? With patience and dedication, you could soon be enjoying these exotic fruits fresh from your own tree!

Video – How to Sow and Grow Pomegranates