Jackfruit is the largest fruit that grows on a tree. One fruit typically weighs 10 - 30 lbs. You can cook jackfruit is many different ways. The ripe fruit tastes like a combination of mango, banana, pineapple, and cantaloupe.
Varieties Available:
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Black Gold, Honey Gold, Orange Crush
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Gold Nugget---15 gallon
How to care for Jackfruit
Light. Plant in full sun for best growth and fruit. Keep it 25 to 30 ft from other trees and buildings.
Water. Water young trees regularly during dry periods. Mature trees need water in dry spells, most of all from bloom through fruit set. Trees may decline after 2 to 3 days of soggy soil, so plant on a mound in low spots.
Soil and feeding. It grows in sand and in South Florida's alkaline limestone soils. Feed young trees about every 8 weeks the first year with a fruit tree fertilizer such as Citrus and Fruit Tree Fertilizer. Use no nitrogen fertilizer after August.
Size. Grows to about 25 ft. Selective pruning after harvest can hold it at 8 to 14 ft.
Problems to watch. Scales and mealybugs attack stems and fruit; Insecticidal Soap is one option. Root rot follows flooding.
Good to know. Leaves are damaged at 32°F and trees can die at 28°F. Fruit ripens mainly in summer and fall.
Sources: UF/IFAS Ask IFAS MG370: Jackfruit Growing in the Florida Home Landscape
