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How to Plant Acai Seeds

The acai tree or Euterpe oleracea is a species of palm tree that originated in South America. Commercial growers cultivate this tree primarily for its fruit, and the palm heart is also edible. The acai tree is a tropical plant that can grow to 90 feet in height and produce fruit twice per year under ideal conditions. Acai trees propagate readily from seed and the mature plants require little maintenance in warm climates.

Things You'll Need

  • Garden trowel
  • Granular fertilizer
  • Mulch
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check to see if your climate is in U.S. Department of Agriculture Hardiness Zone 10b or warmer. An acai tree cannot tolerate frost, so you should only plant it in areas where the temperature remains above 35 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year.

    • 2

      Select a planting site in full sun or partial shade. An acai tree can tolerate poor soil, but grows best in sandy loam with good drainage. Sow the seeds in the planting site on bare soil and cover the seeds with 1/4 to 1/2 inch of soil.

    • 3

      Water the seeds at least once per week to keep the soil moist, but do not allow standing water to accumulate on the ground. Sandy soil may require more frequent watering. The acai seeds should germinate within two months.

    • 4

      Apply a granular fertilizer specifically for palm trees according to the instructions. This generally means scattering the granules within several feet of the trunk, without actually getting the fertilizer on the trunk.

    • 5

      Apply a layer of mulch around the acai tree seedlings when they reach a height of about 6 inches. Mulch helps retain moisture around the plants and also provides additional nutrients. Pine needles are a good choice for palms since they produce acid, and palm trees prefer acidic soil.