The pomegranate has narrow, lance-shaped, glossy dark green leaves that may turn yellow in the fall. The flowers are large, showy, orange-red, trumpet-shaped blooms that appear in the summer and are typically 2-3 inches wide. The fruit is round, typically 4-6 inches in diameter, with a tough, leathery skin and a juicy, seed-filled interior. It has multiple upright branches, sometimes with spiny growth, which create a bushy or small tree-like appearance.
- Size: Indoors, the pomegranate plant typically grows to about 2–3 feet (60–90 cm) tall. However, if it is pruned regularly, it can stay smaller and more compact.
- Light: Pomegranates require a lot of sunlight. Place the plant in a bright spot near a south or west-facing window. If natural light is insufficient, you may need to supplement with grow lights.
- Temperature: Ideal indoor temperatures are between 70°F–85°F (21°C–29°C) during the growing season, with a slightly cooler period (around 50°F–60°F or 10°C–15°C) in winter to encourage dormancy.
- Watering: Water the plant regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Pomegranates do not like sitting in water, so ensure the pot has good drainage.
- Soil: Use well-draining, sandy loam soil. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0) is ideal. A mix designed for cactus or citrus plants is a good option.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring through summer). Reduce feeding during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
- Pruning: Prune the pomegranate to maintain a compact shape and remove any dead or damaged wood. Regular pruning also encourages better air circulation and helps the plant grow more fruit if grown outdoors.
- Humidity: Pomegranates don’t require high humidity, but a moderate level of indoor humidity (around 40–60%) is ideal. To maintain this, consider using a humidity tray or misting the leaves occasionally.
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Pollination: If you want the plant to bear fruit indoors, you'll need to manually pollinate the flowers by transferring pollen from one flower to another using a small brush or cotton swab.