Drought Tolerance of Tropical Fruit Trees

In Southwest Florida, water stress symptoms on trees are especially apparent during the months of April, May and early June.  This is due to the low cloud cover, hot and dry winds and little or no rainfall during these months, which can contribute to desiccation and put a lot of stress on a tree.  If you are concerned about water usage in your yard, you may wish to consult this table in determining what trees to plant.  Trees with good drought tolerance and moderate drought tolerance will be easier to establish and maintain in your landscape.  Trees with poor drought tolerance will require close monitoring and frequent watering.  Water stress, if it is not severe enough to kill the tree, can certainly delay fruiting, stunt growth and contribute to overall poor health.  All trees, but especially those with low or no drought tolerance should be monitored during the dry season for water stress.

Table 10 Drought tolerance of ECHO's tropical fruit trees. Information from Florida Fruit by Lewis Maxwell and Rare and Exotic Tropical Fruit Trees and Palms, by Carl W. Campbell and Seymour Goldweber, published by the Caloosa Rare Fruit Exchange; and our own observations and experience.