Best Fertilizer for Jujube Tree: Feeding Tips for Bigger Fruit & Healthier Growth

Understanding the Jujube Tree’s Nutrient Needs

The jujube tree (Ziziphus jujuba) is a drought-hardy fruit species native to Asia that has adapted remarkably well to many parts of Australia, including arid inland regions. Whether you’re growing it in Queensland, New South Wales, or Western Australia, the key to success lies in understanding how to nourish this resilient tree at every stage of its life cycle. Selecting the best fertilizer for jujube tree development is crucial to maximise yield, fruit sweetness, and tree longevity.

Early in the growing season, jujube trees require higher nitrogen to support trunk thickening and foliage production. As they transition toward flowering and fruit set, the emphasis shifts to phosphorus and potassium, which stimulate bud development and enhance sugar production in the fruit. Additionally, jujube trees benefit from calcium, magnesium, and trace minerals like iron and zinc, which play supporting roles in overall plant metabolism.

We recommend starting the season with CompleteGrow’s 20-20-20 All Purpose Liquid Fertiliser. This balanced formula provides an even ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, making it ideal for kickstarting growth. Apply monthly starting in early spring. Once the tree shows flower buds or begins fruiting, shift to a low-nitrogen formula like our 4-18-38 + Cal-Mag Liquid Blend, which enhances flowering, fruit set, and flavour development while supporting cell wall strength through calcium.

During peak growth, jujube trees should be fed monthly, or fortnightly if they’re in containers. Always dilute the fertiliser according to label recommendations, especially in hot weather or sandy soil conditions to prevent root burn. For heavy clay soils, deep application methods are preferred to avoid nutrient lockout.

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Best Fertilising Practices for Jujube Trees in Australia

Australia’s diverse soil types—from coastal sandy soils to inland clay—require location-specific fertilising strategies. In Western Australia, sandy soil drains quickly, meaning nutrients can be lost unless slow-release or liquid fertilisers are applied after watering. In contrast, clay-heavy soils in Victoria and inland New South Wales hold onto nutrients longer but may restrict root access unless aerated.

Water your jujube trees thoroughly before applying any fertiliser. This protects the roots and helps distribute nutrients evenly. Fertiliser should be applied around the dripline of the tree (the outer circle formed by the canopy) rather than directly at the trunk. For young trees or potted specimens, reduce the strength of the application by half, and increase frequency to biweekly to ensure consistent nutrient availability without overloading the root zone.

Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers once flowering has begun. While nitrogen boosts leaf and branch growth, too much can delay or diminish fruit development. During the flowering and fruiting stage, use the 4-18-38 + Cal-Mag blend from CompleteGrow to encourage strong fruit set and sweeter flavour profiles. This formula supports potassium-driven fruit swelling and helps prevent blossom end rot with added calcium.

If leaves begin yellowing despite proper feeding, consider adding iron chelates or a magnesium supplement, as micronutrient deficiencies may still occur in highly alkaline or nutrient-depleted soils. You can also improve fertiliser retention by mulching with sugarcane or lucerne mulch.

Finally, never fertilise in winter while the tree is dormant. This can lead to soft, weak off-season growth that is prone to damage. Wait until mid to late spring when leaf buds have visibly emerged before beginning your fertilising schedule anew.

FAQs: Best Fertiliser for Jujube Trees

What is the best fertiliser for jujube trees in pots?
Use a liquid fertiliser like CompleteGrow’s 20-20-20 at half strength every 2–3 weeks during active growing months. Ensure pots have excellent drainage to avoid salt buildup.

Can I use general-purpose citrus fertiliser?
While citrus blends can offer temporary benefits, they often contain too much nitrogen for mature jujubes in the fruiting stage. Opt for a high-potassium blend like 4-18-38 instead.

How often should I fertilise jujube trees?
Fertilise monthly from mid-spring through early autumn. In hot, dry climates or sandy soil, you may need to increase frequency slightly or adjust concentration.

Is it possible to overfertilise a jujube tree?
Yes. Overfeeding with nitrogen can lead to lush leaves at the expense of fruit. Follow dosage instructions carefully and reduce nitrogen in mid to late season.

Which fertiliser do you recommend from CompleteGrow?
Start the season with our All Purpose 20-20-20 Liquid Fertiliser and switch to the 4-18-38 + Cal-Mag formula for flowering and fruiting.

What’s the best time to apply fertiliser?
Early morning or late afternoon is ideal. Avoid applying fertiliser during the hottest part of the day to prevent stress and leaf scorch.