Soursop is native to tropical regions of Central America, soursop (Annona muricata) and is a tangy and edible fruit, cultivated and grown in evergreen regions. The fruit is largely exported to other countries such as Italy and Nigeria, where it’s used in various foods and drinks, as well herbal medicines.
If you are planning to invest in this lesser known fruit by starting your own soursop production and exporting it, congratulations, you’ve made the right choice.
It’s also a good idea to know that soursop sells regularly in the U.S. for $10 per pound, therefore starting a plantation can be incredibly lucrative.
Brief History
The exact origin of soursop is unknown but it has been cultivated in South America and Africa for thousands of years. It can also be found in Asia, by the name of “sirsak”.
Because of its popularity in these regions, farmers started commercializing the fruit, selling it in the form of desserts, beverages, and even herbal medicine.
Soursop Cultivation – Where to Start
Soursop trees have a naturally slow growth rate, yet cultivation rate is significantly faster if production is planned out appropriately.
What are the two important requirements of soursop farming and cultivation?
The average soursop plantation will grow to as high as 15 to 20 feet in around 6 years. The trees will bear fruit in 3 to 5 years!
Soursop Growth: Conditions and Requirements
Here’s a fun fact: majority of fruits cultivated for commercial production and export are highly sensitive.
That’s why, take into consideration all the time you can to make sure that the location you have chosen offers ideal soursop growth conditions. This will speed up the process, while also ensuring that the fruit produced is of high quality.
Look for a planation site that is 70 to 80 percent humid. However, it’s also important to consider looking for a site that offers shade during midday.
Other requirements for soursop cultivation are:
- Organic and rich soil
- Well-drained soil
- High-sand content
- Mildly acidic
TKO Farms, Inc. is a California based company that offers outstanding investment opportunities in Belize. We have contracted to acquire a 512-acre farm with a proposed additional 400 acres.
So if you’re looking for consultation or investment opportunities, feel free to contact us.