Challenges for high tunnel production of white guava in southern Virginia

Abstract

Guava, Psidium guajava L. is a tropical and subtropical fruit with many varieties grown in different countries. The traditional pink-flesh guava is mainly used for processing purposes and has yet to cross over to American consumers. The white-flesh guava, a mildly sweet fruit with a crunchy texture is eaten when fruit color reaches a yellowish green stage, and has attracted attention in recent years. In southern Florida, the white guava variety is appreciated among some American consumers. Growers in Virginia are always looking for new crops with market potential. In response to this, a study was conducted to evaluate the possibility of growing white guava under high tunnel conditions in southern Virginia. One-year-old trees were planted in Nov. 2007 and Jan. 2008. Trees initiated blooming in Apr. 2008 and fruits were harvested starting the last week of Sept. 2008.