Kiwano

Kiwano, also known as African gherkin or horned melon, is an exotic plant native to Africa. Its nutritional benefits and ease of cultivation make it a worthwhile addition to any garden.

First of all, kiwano is a fruit rich in vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in strengthening the immune system. Additionally, it also contains vitamin A, which is beneficial for eye health, as well as powerful antioxidants that may help prevent certain cancers and cardiovascular diseases.

When it comes to growing kiwano, it likes warm, sunny climates. It can be grown from seed or seedlings, but it is best to start with seedlings to save time. Kiwano plants can be purchased from specialist nurseries or online.

Before planting kiwano, make sure you choose a sunny spot in your garden. Dig a hole about 30 cm deep and place the plant there, making sure it is well rooted. Fill the hole with fertile soil and water thoroughly to help the plant get established. It is recommended to plant several kiwano plants to ensure good pollination.

Maintaining the kiwano is quite simple. The plant needs regular watering, especially during periods of drought. Also be sure to weed regularly around the plant to avoid competition for soil nutrients. Finally, it is good to feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month to promote healthy growth.

The kiwano harvest time usually begins in late summer or early fall, approximately 4 to 5 months after planting. To know if the fruits are ready to harvest, simply pick them and check to see if they have bright orange skin and are slightly soft to the touch. The fruits should be eaten quickly after harvesting, as they do not keep long.

There are different ways to consume kiwano. Some prefer to eat it raw, simply cutting the fruit in half and removing the pulp with a spoon. Others use the pulp to prepare juices, smoothies or exotic fruit salads. Some people also like to add slices of kiwano to their salads for a touch of tangy flavor.

In summary, kiwano is an attractive fruit tree or fruiting plant to grow in your garden. It offers many nutritional benefits, is easy to grow and maintain, and can be harvested in late summer or early fall. So why not consider adding this exotic plant to your garden and enjoy its delicious fruits?