Guava

Psidium guajava

A small, fast-growing evergreen tree native to Central/South America, now naturalized and widely grown across Kenya for its vitamin C-rich fruit. Often found semi-wild as well as in cultivation.

Family: Myrtaceae
Tree type: fruit
Mature height (m): 3-10
Growth rate: fast
Lifespan (years): 30-40
Native region: Central America/Mexico

Environment

Growing Conditions

Climate requirements: Tolerant of a wide range of tropical/subtropical conditions, 15-30C, 1000-2000mm rainfall, altitude 0-2000m; fairly drought-tolerant once established.
Soil types: Adaptable to many soils including marginal ground, pH 4.5-7.5; prefers well-drained loam.
Water requirements: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant but irrigation improves fruit quality.

Cultivation

Planting & Care

Planting guide: Space 4-6m apart; propagate by grafting, cuttings, or seed; plant at the start of rains.
Care guide: Prune regularly to encourage new fruiting growth; moderate fertilization; watch for fruit flies, guava wilt disease, and nematodes.

Phenology

Flowering & Fruiting

Flowering season: Two flushes, roughly Mar-Apr and Sep-Oct
Fruiting season: Near year-round with peaks Jun-Aug and Dec-Feb

Value

Uses & Economic Importance

Uses: Fresh fruit, juice and jam processing; leaves used in traditional medicine.
Economic importance: A low-input, widely grown smallholder food-security and income crop across Kenya; supports a modest local juice/pulp processing industry, with limited formal export.

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