How to Grow Guava in a Pot and Harvest Up to 18 kg of Fresh Fruit

By Lilo Last updated May 2, 2025

How to Grow Guava Fruit in a Pot: Harvest Up to 18 kg of Fresh Fruit

Guava is a delicious tropical fruit that thrives surprisingly well in containers. If you’ve been craving the sweet, juicy taste of homegrown guava but don’t have space for a full garden, growing it in a pot is an easy and productive alternative. With the right variety and a bit of care, you can enjoy harvests of up to 18 kilograms per year—all from a single plant on your balcony or patio.

Choosing the Right Pot

Size

Guava trees need space to stretch their roots. Select a pot at least 18–24 inches in diameter and 20 inches deep. A larger container promotes stronger root development and better fruit production.

Material

Plastic, clay, or ceramic pots are all suitable choices. What matters most is drainage—make sure the pot has multiple holes to prevent root rot from excess moisture.

Selecting the Best Guava Variety

Not all guavas grow well in containers. Opt for dwarf or compact varieties such as:

Red Malaysian
Ruby Supreme
Dwarf Thai or Tropical Pink

Choose based on your flavor preference—some varieties lean sweet, while others have a tangy punch.

Planting Your Guava Tree

Soil Mix

Use a well-draining mix made of equal parts:

Garden soil
Compost or well-rotted manure
Coarse sand or perlite

This blend supports healthy root development and ensures aeration.

Planting Steps

Fill two-thirds of the pot with your soil mix.
Place the sapling in the center.
Backfill with the remaining soil and gently firm around the base.
Water thoroughly after planting.

Sunlight and Placement

Guava trees are sun lovers. Place the container in a spot that receives 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

While they flourish in tropical warmth, guavas can handle mild frost if protected with covers or brought indoors during cold snaps.

Daily Care and Maintenance

Watering

Keep the soil consistently moist, especially in summer. Let the top inch of soil dry before re-watering to avoid soggy roots.

Fertilizing

Feed your guava tree every 6–8 weeks with a balanced slow-release fertilizer. Organic options like compost or liquid seaweed are excellent for encouraging fruit development.

Pruning

Regular pruning helps control size, shape, and airflow. Trim back:

Dead or diseased branches
Overcrowded growth
Excess height

Proper pruning promotes stronger fruiting and prevents disease.

Dealing with Pests and Disease

Keep an eye out for:

Aphids
Mealybugs
Fruit flies

Treat infestations with neem oil or homemade insecticidal sprays. Avoid chemical pesticides to maintain an organic harvest.

To prevent fungal diseases:

Avoid overwatering
Improve air circulation
Clean up fallen leaves and debris

When and How to Harvest

Fruit Maturity

Guavas are ready to pick 4 to 6 months after flowering. You’ll know they’re ripe when they:

Emit a sweet fragrance
Change color (usually yellow-green, red, or pink depending on the type)
Soften slightly to the touch

Harvesting Tip

Cut or gently twist the fruit to avoid damaging the branch. Use pruning shears for clean, safe picking.

Expected Yield and Benefits

With proper care, a container-grown guava tree can yield 15 to 18 kilograms of fruit per year. Growing your own guavas offers several benefits:

Fresh, organic fruit at your fingertips
Savings on grocery bills
A productive use of small spaces like balconies, patios, and terraces

Conclusion
Growing guava in a pot is not only doable—it’s incredibly rewarding. With the right setup, routine care, and some sunshine, your potted guava tree can produce baskets of delicious fruit year after year. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a first-time grower, this tropical fruit is a smart, satisfying addition to your edible garden.