Starfruit (Carambola)
Averrhoa carambola
Tropical favorite; dwarf cultivars can fruit in large containers.
🌞 Light & Temperature
Light: Full sun
Temperature: 22–34°C
🪴 Pot & Soil
Pot: 75–100 L pot; prune to 2–2.5 m.
Soil Mix: Loamy, draining mix; pH 5.5–6.5
💧 Watering
Schedule: Dry season: 2–3x/week; Rainy season: weekly if no rain
Amount: 5–7 L per watering
Consistent moisture; avoid waterlogging.
🧪 Fertilizing
Type: Fruiting fertilizer higher in K
Frequency: Monthly
Dosage: 70–100 g/month for 75–100 L pot
🍓 Fruiting & Harvest
Start: 12–18 months from grafted plants
Seasonality: Multiple crops year-round; peaks after pruning
Duration: 90–120 days to harvest
Harvest Indicators: Ribs turn yellow; fruit aromatic; crisp texture
Tips: Harvest with scissors; avoid bruising.
🌱 Propagation
Grafted plants recommended; air-layering possible.
🐛 Pests & Diseases
- Fruit flies: Bag fruits; bait traps; maintain hygiene.
- Sooty mold (from scale): Control scale; wash leaves with mild soap.
🌦️ Seasonal Notes (Malaysia)
Prune lightly after harvest to stimulate new flowering.
📝 Planting Notes
Use heavy pot and wind-sheltered spot; thin fruits for size.
💡 Extra Care Tips
- Mulch and maintain even watering
- Avoid high nitrogen close to flowering
Note
Schedules are guidelines—adjust for your microclimate, pot size, and weather. During heavy monsoon rain, reduce watering and improve drainage.