How to grow Pepino in Australia
Grow this tender shrubby plant in full sun in fertile, well-drained soil, staking or supporting the sprawling stems. Water consistently for plump fruit, as uneven moisture causes problems, and feed through the growing season.
At a glance
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Sun: Full sun
- Water: 5 litres a week, watered every 3 days
- Spacing: 60 cm
- Time to harvest: 120 days
- Time to germinate: 14 days
- Soil pH: 6 to 7
- Frost tolerance: Half hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | September to November | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | September to November | |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | September to November | |
| Melbourne & Victoria | October and November | Annual. Plant after frost. Shorter season than SEQ. |
| Adelaide & SA | September to November | |
| Perth & WA | September to November | |
| Tasmania | October and November | Marginal annual. Plant Oct to Nov and mulch well. Fruit needs every warm week the summer offers. |
| Canberra & ACT | October and November | Marginal. Plant after frost and treat as an annual, or overwinter under cover. Killed by hard frost. |
| North Queensland | April to August | Dry season only. Plant Apr to Aug; fruit drops once days pass about 27C, so it is finished by the build up. |
| Darwin & Top End | Not suited | Not viable. Pepino drops fruit above about 27C. Darwin heat is fatal. |
Varieties
- Pepino Gold
Companion planting
Good companions
Avoid planting near
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Pick when the fruit turns golden with purple streaks and gives slightly to a gentle press. Cut or twist from the stem, and fruit ripens in waves over a long window.
Storage
Ripen on bench until fragrant and slightly soft. Fridge for 1 week.