Self-fertile. A single tree will produce fruit. Planting two or more pomegranates improves yields.

Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Pomegranates are extremely drought-tolerant once established and thrive in hot, dry conditions — exactly the conditions that suit much of South Africa.

Water regularly when young and establishing. Once the tree is well-rooted (after the first season), watering can be reduced significantly. Deep, infrequent watering during the fruiting season produces the best quality fruit.

Feed lightly with a balanced fertiliser in spring. Pomegranates do not need heavy fertilisation and will produce reliably in lean soils once established.

Prune in late winter if needed to shape the tree or remove dead and crossing branches. Pomegranates can be maintained as a multi-stemmed shrub or trained to a single trunk.