How to Grow Pomegranate in New Zealand
Pomegranates want a hot dry summer to ripen well, so they crop best in sheltered, sunny northern and eastern districts and the Nelson and Hawke's Bay areas. Plant in winter while dormant. Keep watering even through the season, as irregular water splits the fruit.
When to plant pomegranate in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | June, July, August |
| Auckland | June, July, August |
| Waikato & BoP | June, July, August |
| Wellington | June, July, September |
| Nelson & Marlborough | June, July, September |
Best pomegranate varieties for NZ
- Wonderful — The standard large red-arilled pomegranate, best fruit in warm dry districts. (Waimea Nurseries, garden centres)
- Gulosha — Sweet-tart heavy cropper, ornamental and productive in sheltered sun. (specialist nurseries)
How to grow pomegranate
- Space plants about 300cm apart.
- Sow seed around 20cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 365 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 1 days.
Companion planting
Grow pomegranate near: Lavender, Rosemary.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Aphids, Birds. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Pomegranate plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant pomegranate in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in June, July, August. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy pomegranate seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Waimea Nurseries, garden centres, specialist nurseries.