Tips for growing passionfruit

[RosieW]

I would really love to get a passionfruit going, but haven't had much success. I know they're heavy feeders so i prepared the soil thoroughly.

First one I planted about 7 years ago, died (I don't think it got enough sun). But the root stock is STILL popping up all over the place!

I tried again late last year - this time in its own garden bed in a sunny spot (to keep my dog out mainly) - again lots of compost, sheep manure. It died too.

The horticulturalist at Bunnings said it sounded like too much or too little water.  

I'd love to hear if others have had this happen to them too and any stories about what they do for happy healthy passionfruit.

[hanspet]

Thanks, Jacob. That seems sensible. But, shouldn't I also add some  Perlite? I noticed that this potting mix doesnt come with Perlite.

[MitchellMc]

Hi @hanspet,

Adding perlite isn’t a necessity, but it can help, especially if you're growing in a container. Perlite improves drainage and aeration, which can be beneficial if you're concerned about the mix staying too wet or compacting over time.

If you do want to mix some in, around 10–20% perlite by volume is a good guide. It’s all about ensuring the roots don’t sit in soggy soil, particularly during cooler months when passionfruit vines slow their growth and water use. 

Apart from the perlite, ensuring the pot has good drainage is essential.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[hanspet]

Thanks! Yes, the plan is to grow it on a pot, so I will try the perlite.

With the watering, is it safe to use something like this:

https://amzn.asia/d/5cV75sw

or is it better to have a fixed schedule like watering twice a week or so? I understand they are sensitive to overwatering, but also don’t want them to go dry. 

Thank you for any advice 

[JacobZ]

Hi @hanspet,

Products like the Holman Watermate 750mL Self Watering Tank are great if you are going on a short holiday and want to keep up the watering, but if you are going to be around, it is usually better to water them yourself so you can check and adjust how much you are watering based on what you see.

Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a set schedule when it comes to watering, as there are so many variables that can affect how your plants drink, such as temperature, wind, and shade levels. 

You will start to get a feel for how often your plants want water. It could be once a week, or maybe every 4 days. Just remember that this is not set in stone, as changes in the seasons, fruiting and growth will change the water needs of your plants.

The best approach is to check the soil for moisture before watering; if it is still moist, wait a day or two; if it is dry, water it deeply and check the soil again in a couple of days.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[hanspet]

I transplanted the two plants today and they didn’t look too good. Not sure what happened. They didn’t looked like this just this morning .

 

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @hanspet,

I wouldn't worry too much at this point. A plant's leaves will droop when it is stressed, which is going to happen when it is repotted.

Just make sure you give it plenty of water and keep an eye on it.

If it starts to look worse, please upload some photos so we can offer further recommendations.

Jacob

[hanspet]

Thanks, Jacob. 

after I transplanted and watered them they improved. But today one of the two plants if again with dropped leaves. Is it possible it’s too hot at this spot and they are getting heat stress? I can’t imagine the soil is dry after just one day, so I’m hesitant to water them again.

Thanks again for any advice,

karl

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @hanspet,

Stress is to be expected, but too much sun can exacerbate it and stress them out. It's worth giving them some shade during the hottest parts of the day until they get established in their new pots.

Dropped or wilting leaves during the heat of the day can be a protective response to reduce moisture loss. If they perk up again in the evening or early morning, that’s usually a sign that it’s temporary heat stress, not a lack of water.

You can check the soil's moisture content by sticking your finger in the top 5-10cm of soil. If it is still moist, hold off watering and check again the next day.

Just keep on monitoring them and keeping the water levels up, and they should be fine.

Jacob