How to Grow Pomegranates in East Texas

Overview

Native to the Middle East and Asia, pomegranate trees are perfectly suited to the growing conditions in southern states. Pomegranates have been growing in Texas since 1521, when Jesuit ministers massed from Mexico into Texas and California, according to Texas A&M University. East Texans can plant several pomegranate varieties, including Cloud, Cranberry and Wonderful.

Step 1

Plant pomegranates in the sunniest, warmest spot in the yard.

Step 2

Dig a hole that is 2 feet larger and deeper than the pomegranate sapling's root ball, using a shovel. Remove any rocks or debris from the hole.

Step 3

Remove the pomegranate sapling from its plastic container. Break apart the root ball with your fingers and untangle the roots, if necessary. Place the tree in the hole so that it's vertically straight and sitting at the same depth as it was in its original container. Spread the roots out with your fingers.

Step 4

Fill in the hole with dirt. Water until the soil is saturated.

Step 5

Water the pomegranate tree when the soil becomes dry. Fertilize in the spring and fall with an 8-8-8 fertilizer, suggests the Arizona Cooperative Extension. Follow label instructions for dosage.

Step 6

Prune back the pomegranate tree annually to remove weak growth. Trim back suckers and remove shoots that cross against other shoots or grow downward, using anvil pruners. Prune the pomegranate tree in the early spring before new leaves appear for best results.