How to Grow Rambutan

A warm-season fruit for the home garden across the warmer US.

Rambutan is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Rambutan in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the rambutan page for exact timing.

Varieties

R-162, Sweet, popular clone (Florida fruit nurseries)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 800 cm (315 in) between plants.
Sowing: sow about 25 cm deep.
Water: roughly 20 L per plant every 4 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Birds. In humid regions, Powdery mildew and Stem canker can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Rambutan is usually ready to harvest within roughly 61 months once established. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant rambutan where you garden.

See what to plant this month

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