PUSH pistachio plantscientifically known as Real pistachiosoriginates from various regions of Western Asia and Middle East. Its cultivation dates back thousands of years and is an important source of food and income for the local population. In fact, it is one of the few plants from which pistachios are obtained, a prized dried fruit highly valued around the world for its unique flavor and nutritional properties.
How to grow a pistachio plant
The pistachio plant is often cultivated for its fruits, but he also has one ornamental beauty which makes the gardens even more interesting. This plant needs less water than other horticultural crops and therefore could be a sustainable crop choice as well as a source of income.
- Soil preparation: it is necessary to dig a deep planting area, at least 60 cm, and remove weeds and roots to improve the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure and fertility.
- Plantation: it is advisable to buy pistachio plants in a specialized nursery and plant them in autumn or spring. At this point you will need to dig holes large enough to fit the roots without damaging them. The distance between the plants should be at least 5-7 meters, as pistachios grow into a fairly large tree. Finally, place the plant in the hole and fill it with prepared soil, and after planting, water the plant well to stabilize the roots.
- Irrigation: during the first year watering is necessary to help the plants root. You must ensure that the soil is always moist. After the first year, the pistachio is quite resistant to drought, but during periods of prolonged drought it will still need to be watered.
- Fertilization: you need a specific balanced fertilizer for pistachio plants or a slow release fertilizer in early spring. It is best to ask your fertilizer dealer or an expert for help.
- Wait for production: it can take several years for a pistachio plant to start producing fruit. The key is to be patient and continue to care for the tree carefully.
How to take care of it
PUSH Protecting pistachios from pests is essential ensure good growth and healthy fruit production. There are several of them Preventive measures and interventions that can be taken to protect pistachios from parasites.
- Regular monitoring: inspecting the plant every day is always a good method valid for all plants that could save the plant from being attacked by parasites.
- Keeping the plant healthy: You need to make sure you give the plant the right conditions to grow, including well-drained soil, adequate watering, balanced fertilization, and adequate exposure to sunlight.
- Physical barriers: physical barriers such as nets or tarps can be used to protect the plant from flying or climbing parasites.
- Crop rotation: if you grow multiple pistachio plants or other plants in your garden, it is useful to practice crop rotation. This can help reduce the build-up of specific pests in the soil.
- Early interventions: in case of infestation by parasites, it will be necessary to intervene quickly to limit the damage. If the infestation is severe or persistent, you should consult an experienced agronomist or gardener for advice on how to manage the situation effectively and safely.
The pistachio plant: climate and pruning
Pistachio plant (Pistacia vera) is native to regions with hot and dry climate, therefore this plant thrives in Mediterranean climates characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. In addition, it requires pistachios cold season winter to stimulate flowering and fruit production.
Pistachios are enough drought resistant after establishment, but it is important to ensure that the plant receives enough water during the period of active growth and especially during the first few years of cultivation.
Another point to pay attention to is pruning, which is a basic procedure for this plant.
- Training pruning: in the first years of the plant’s life, a formative cut can be practiced to shape the structure of the tree. Damaged or yellowed branches and leaves must be removed.
- Production pruning: after the plant reaches adequate size and begins to produce fruit, a production cut can be made to stimulate abundant production. Old and unproductive branches must be removed to encourage the growth of new, young and strong branches that will bear better quality fruit.
- Pruning Cleaning: every year it is useful to make a cleaning cut to remove dry, diseased or damaged branches, mainly to prevent diseases and parasites.
- Reduction pruning: if the plant grows too tall, the topmost branches can be cut back to reduce the height and encourage branching.
Pruning is important during rest time plants, usually in winter. Pruning represents wounds that need to be healed for the plant, so respecting the timing of the natural cycle helps keep the plant healthy and strong.