How to Plant Pink Shaddock in Nigeria

Pink Shaddock (Citrus maxima), also known as pink pomelo, is a large and juicy citrus fruit cherished for its sweet-tart flavour, refreshing aroma, and vibrant pink flesh. 

In Nigeria, it is valued not only for its delicious taste but also for its high nutritional content, particularly vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants that support good health. 

The tree thrives in warm, tropical climates, making Nigeria’s environment highly suitable for its cultivation.

With proper planting techniques, good farm management, and effective pest control, Pink Shaddock farming can be a rewarding venture for both small-scale and commercial growers. 

This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to plant, care for, and harvest Pink Shaddock in Nigeria for optimal yield and quality.

Description of the Pink Shaddock

Pink Shaddock (Citrus maxima), also known as pink pomelo, is one of the largest citrus fruits in the world. 

It has a thick rind, sweet-tart flavour, and pale to deep pink flesh. 

The fruit is highly nutritious, rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. 

Pink Shaddock trees can grow up to 15 meters in height, though they are often pruned for easier management. 

The tree’s glossy green leaves and fragrant flowers make it a beautiful addition to orchards and farms.

This citrus variety is prized for fresh consumption, juice extraction. 

In Nigeria, it thrives best in tropical and subtropical climates with well-drained soils.

Planting Season for Pink Shaddock in Nigeria

Pink Shaddock should be planted at the start of the rainy season to ensure young seedlings get sufficient moisture for root establishment. 

In most parts of Nigeria, this is typically between March and May in the south and late May to early June in the north.

Planting during this period allows the seedlings to grow strong before the dry season sets in. 

In irrigated farms, Pink Shaddock can be planted year-round, but natural rainfall at the beginning stages reduces the cost of watering.

Planting the Pink Shaddock

Step 1 – Choose a Location

Select a site with:

• Full sunlight (at least 6–8 hours daily)
  
• Well-drained sandy loam soil with a pH of 5.5–6.5
  
• Protection from strong winds (windbreaks or natural barriers help prevent flower and fruit drop)
  Avoid low-lying waterlogged areas, as standing water can cause root rot.
  

Step 2 – Land Clearing and Preparation

• Clear the land of weeds, stumps, and debris.
  
• Level the area to prevent waterlogging in planting spots.
  
• Plough and harrow the soil if possible to improve aeration.
  
• Mark planting holes 6 – 8 meters apart in both directions for good spacing.
  

Step 3 – Means of Propagation

Pink Shaddock can be propagated by:

• Seeds – common for small-scale farmers, but take longer to fruit (5–7 years).
  
• Grafting or budding – preferred for commercial purposes; produces faster and more uniform yields (3–4 years to fruiting).
  

Step 4 – How to Plant Pink Shaddock from Seed

1. Seed Extraction – Scoop seeds from ripe fruit, wash off pulp, and air-dry for 24 hours.
   
2. Nursery Preparation – Fill nursery bags with loamy soil mixed with compost.
   
3. Sowing – Plant seeds 2–3 cm deep in the soil. Water lightly.
   
4. Transplanting – After 8–12 months, when seedlings are 30 – 40 cm tall and have strong roots, transplant them to the prepared field holes (60 cm wide × 60 cm deep).
   
5. Planting in the Field – Place the seedling upright, fill with soil mixed with well-rotted manure, and press gently to remove air pockets. Water immediately.
   

Step 5 – Watering

• Water newly transplanted seedlings twice weekly during dry periods.
  
• Mature trees need deep watering every 10 – 14 days in the dry season.
  

Step 6 – Apply Manure

• Apply well-rotted compost or farmyard manure per tree annually.
  
• Use NPK or citrus-specific fertiliser in split doses: early rainy season, mid-season, and post-harvest.
  
• Apply fertiliser 30–50 cm away from the trunk to avoid root burn.
  

Maturity and Harvest

Pink Shaddock grown from grafted seedlings will bear fruit in 3 – 4 years, while seed-grown trees may take 5 – 7 years.

• Fruits mature 7 – 8 months after flowering.
  
• A ripe Pink Shaddock has a bright yellowish-green rind, a sweet aroma, and a slightly soft feel when pressed.
  
• Harvest with clippers or scissors to avoid damaging the fruit and stem.
  

Pests and Diseases

Common Pests

• Citrus aphids – suck sap from young shoots and leaves, causing curling.
  
• Fruit flies – These lay eggs in fruits, causing internal rot.
  
• Citrus leaf miners – they create winding tunnels in leaves, reducing photosynthesis.
  
• Mealybugs – excrete honeydew, attracting sooty mould fungi.
  

Common Diseases

• Citrus canker – is a bacterial disease causing leaf spots and fruit blemishes.
  
• Greening disease (HLB) – this stunts growth and causes small, misshapen fruits.
  
• Root rot – caused by waterlogged soil and fungal attack.
  

Pest and Disease Control

• Cultural Control – Keep the farm weed-free, prune infected branches, and avoid overcrowding.
  
• Biological Control – Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs to feed on aphids.
  
• Chemical Control – Use insecticides and fungicides as needed.
  
• Preventive Measures – Use disease-free seedlings, practice crop rotation, and ensure proper drainage.
  

Conclusion

Planting Pink Shaddock in Nigeria is a profitable venture for farmers who have access to suitable land and follow good cultivation practices. 

With the right planting season, proper spacing, regular watering, and effective pest control, farmers can enjoy high yields of this delicious, nutritious citrus fruit. 

Whether grown for local markets or export, Pink Shaddock offers great potential for income and healthy living.

Hope this article was helpful.