Passion fruit cultivation in the ecological garden. Permaculture in Galicia
On this occasion we present one of our favorite fruits: The passion fruit.
Passion fruit is also popularly known as "passion fruit", chinola, passion fruit, passion fruit or passion fruit. This tropical fruit, belonging to the genus Passiflora, is native to South America, and grows from a climbing plant that can live up to ten years.
Varieties
The most common varieties, characterized both by the intense color of their fruits are the yellow passion fruit and the purple.
The yellow passion fruit grows and develops very well in tropical areas; it requires abundant annual rainfall and constant and high temperatures. It is more resistant to diseases and produces much more than other varieties.
The purple passion fruit is better adapted to temperate zones, reason why it can be grown at greater altitude; their rainfall requirements are similar to those of the yellow variety.
We have purple passion fruit in our organic garden, which is what we will show you.
Culture
We can cultivate passion fruit from seeds, cuttings or layers.
It is a plant in great need of water, so we will consider this factor in dry climates, especially during the growing season of the plant. It will require abundant and regular watering, especially during the summer.
The passion fruit needs fertile soils and a large amount of organic matter to develop properly.
We have to place it in full sun. Only if you receive an average of 5 hours a day of sun will produce quality fruits in abundance.
The passion fruit has tendrils that it uses to attach itself to a surface or to other plants.
Since it is a climbing plant, its trellising is necessary, using trellises, tutors or trellises.
In addition to directly on the ground, we can grow it in large containers, provided they have sufficient depth and with a diameter of not less than 40 cm, with a loose and fertile substrate, very rich in organic matter.
The passion fruit grows well in Galicia, forming large vines full of fruits, which gradually mature throughout the summer.
Flower
The flower of the passion fruit, also known as passion flower, is a real spectacle.
Fruit
In its maturity, it turns to a dark color, and finally it will fall under its own weight. It is time to proceed with its collection.
The "fruit" becomes wrinkled as it matures. This is a normal phenomenon, its interior being in perfect condition. It is not a symptom of putrefaction.
Inside, the passion fruit harbors multiple seeds and juice. Very aromatic, with a sweet and slightly acid taste. Exquisite.
Nutritional properties
As for its nutritional properties, the passion fruit possesses a high antioxidant, vasodilator, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and sedative power.
It is a source of protein, has a high content of carbohydrates and a large amount of fiber.
In addition, the passion fruit stands out for its great vitamin intake.
Its content in Vitamin C, is similar to lemon or orange; very significant amounts of Beta-carotene, Vitamin A, Vitamin B2, and a lot of Vitamin B3, doubling and even tripling the usual in fresh fruits.
In the contribution of minerals highlights Potassium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus and Calcium, as well as trace elements such as zinc, copper and selenium.
The passion fruit contributes to balance the level of sugar or blood glucose, helps in the fight against free radicals, improves digestion, fights constipation, prevents cancer, favors the repair of tissues, strengthens bones, relieves symptoms of asthma and reduces the risk of suffering cardiac and degenerative diseases, among many other benefits.
Conclusion
In short: great productivity, the beauty of its flowers, the exquisiteness of its fruits and its numerous nutritional and health benefits make passion fruit a very attractive species to incorporate into our ecological or food forest.
It is also a good alternative to use in tall vines, similar to those of the classic vines or vines vineyards, so common in Galicia. They suppose a good option of control of the microclimate, generating areas of shade, ideal for picnic areas or areas to enjoy outdoors, protected from the force of the sun during the summer.
Music:
"Bomber (Sting)" by Riot
"Hon Kyoku" by Doug Maxwell/ Zac Zinger
"September Pass" by Asher Fulero