Coconuts are one of the most popular fruits in the world. They grow on palm trees that can be found in tropical regions around the world, and they’re a delicious snack for people who live near them or like to travel.
The only downside is that coconuts probably don’t grow on trees where you live. But there’s no need to worry because it’s possible to grow your own coconut tree at home.
To start to grow a coconut plant, soak a fresh coconut with the husk still on it in water for at least two days before planting it in potting soil. Make sure that the compost drains well by adding some sand or fine grit. Keep in a warm well lit place.
Where is the best place to get a coconut from for growing?
You can buy coconut from all the markets and grocery stores.
Look for a young green one without any cracks and that still contains water and is as fresh as possible.
You can also purchase coconuts that have been germinated and that are ready for planting.
This can be a real time saving way to growing your own coconut tree as you won’t need to wait months for the plant to start growing.
Young coconut trees can be purchased from some garden centers and we’ve also found some great options here on Amazon.
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Can you grow a coconut tree from a store bought coconut?
Yes, it is possible but there is no guarantee that your store purchased coconut will germinate and, even if it does, then it will be years before it is large enough to produce coconuts.
How do you germinate a coconut?
Place the coconut on it’s side in a plant pot and cover it with compost so that the top third of the coconut is above the soil surface.
You need to place the pot in a warm place and keep it well watered.
It will take anywhere from 3 to 6 months for the coconut to sprout if conditions are ideal and the coconut is capable of germination.
Are coconut trees easy to grow?
They can be very easy to grow if you follow the instructions on how to germinate a coconut but if conditions are not right, they can take ages to sprout and start growing.
There are also many factors that could result in your coconut failing to sprout at all so it’s best to just try a few different coconuts
Keep it moist and warm (a heated propagator is great if you have one). Germination may take some time, as long as three months, so be patient.
When the seedling has grown to about 10cm tall, you can carefully remove the sprouted coconut from the pot. Be careful not to break off or damage any roots while doing this, and keep it in a warm place with plenty of light.
Don’t be surprised if the seedling looks a little unhappy at first – it may take it a few weeks to recover from being planted.
Looking after your coconut tree
After the coconut is growing steadily in your pot, you can plant it into the ground or a larger container.
You will need a container that is at least 10 inches deep and, as the tree grows, you will need to repot it into larger containers.
The soil needs to have good drainage so add some sand or fine gravel on top of the compost to help improve this.
Don’t forget to keep it well watered and make sure that there is plenty of light – remember that it’s a palm tree so it will need plenty of sun.
What is the best soil for a coconut tree?
Coconuts like a well drained, sandy soil that is warm and light.
You should add sand or grit to the pot that your tree will be planted into or, if you live in a warm area and are planning to grow outside, prepare the soil by mixing in grit, sand and compost to give your tree the best chances.
How long does it take before a coconut tree produces coconuts?
There is no guarantee that a coconut tree, grown from a shop bought coconut, will produce fruit.
If you do want your own coconuts then it is best to start with a commercially grown tree which will produce the fruit.
Young coconut trees will need time to grow and mature and this can take anywhere from six to ten years with the average age being eight years before coconut production.
What is the best fertilizer for coconut trees?
Providing that your coconut tree is planted in good soil or compost there is no real need to add any form of artificial fertilizer.
The best fertilizers for coconut is to simply add green manure or good compost to the top of the soil where the tree is growing.
Final Words
What do you need to grow a coconut tree? The answer is surprisingly simple: water, sunlight and space. Coconut trees can be grown in containers or outdoors.
The germinated coconut will need to be kept warm and watered regularly if it is to sprout successfully.
If you have a lot of room, try growing one in your garden or yard but, if space is limited, then consider planting it in a large pot instead.
