Tropical soda apple flowers and produces fruit throughout the year though
it is concentrated from Sept.-May. This plant will produce 40,000-50,000
seeds per plant with seed germination ranging from 75%-100%. Seed
that is in the top 1-2 inches of the soil surface is more likely
to germinate than seed that is on the soil surface or seed placed
at a depth greater than 3 inches. Seed that is white (immature)
in color is not viable, regardless of fruit color. Seed germination
increases with an increase in fruit size (i.e. - diameter) and it
is not related to fruit color. Livestock and wildlife (feral hogs,
deer, raccoons) will eat the fruit, disperse the seed via feces,
and spread the plant to other land areas.
Seedling emergence has been observed to primarily occur during the
dry season (Sept.-May). New plants will emerge either from seed
or from roots of existing plants. Roots have buds which will regenerate
new shoots. The root system can be extensive with feeder roots (0.25-1.0
inch diameter) located a few inches below ground, extending 3-6
ft horizontally from the crown of the plant.
Tropical soda apple growth and fruit production is greatest during the fall, winter,
and spring seasons. During these same time periods, bahiagrass production
in minimal. The TSA plants grow tall producing shade that limits
bahiagrass production. With a lack of grass and the sweet smell
from the yellow, mature TSA fruit, cattle will eat the fruit and
spread the seed.
High tempatures and wet soil conditions limit TSA growth in the summer months. Typically,
TSA will not produce fruit (or seeds) in the summer season. This
is why herbicide applications or monitoring is not required during
the summer months.
