How to grow Moringa

1. Sow seeds in seed-raising mix as directed on the seed packet and keep moist.
2. When seedlings are large enough to handle, pot them up separately.
3. Grow them in pots for at least a year before planting out in the garden or repotting into larger pots. Always use a premium-quality potting mix. A terracotta and tub type is ideal.

Pro tip: moringa likes a well-drained soil which is slightly acidic (pH 6.2–7). In the garden, a loamy soil with plenty of added compost and well-weathered manure is ideal. In high rainfall areas, plant it on a mound to ensure excess water drains away from the roots.

How to care for a moringa

Moringa thrives in full sun and loves heat. It does best in tropical, sub-tropical and even arid areas.

• In southern states give it a warm, sheltered position with plenty of sun for warmth in winter. A north-facing courtyard is perfect.
• In cool to cold climates, moringa is deciduous, dropping its leaves in autumn. It won't tolerate deep cold, but will survive in Victoria and Tasmania, to re-shoot again in spring. 

Trees should be pruned in the cool season to about 2m high.

• Pot-grown moringa should also be cut back in winter to encourage new growth in spring.    

Watering

Moringa is reasonably drought-tolerant. It hates 'wet feet', however, and will quickly show signs of distress if the soil holds water for long periods after rain or watering.It will need regular watering in the first year or so after planting, but once established it will do well on rainfall alone.It's a different matter in pots, however, where the roots are unable to grow down deep in search of moisture. Water the pot well, making sure that excess water drains away freely, then don't water again until the top 15–20cm of potting mix has dried out.

Fertilising

Moringa should be given 2 applications of a six-month controlled-release fertiliser each year – 1 in late winter and the other in late summer. Read the label for details about how much to apply.From spring to late summer, liquid or water-soluble fertilisers may also be used to give trees an added boost.In spring, add compost and weathered manure as a mulch over the roots of trees in the garden. 

Diseases and pests affecting moringa

Moringa is not affected by any serious diseases, but may be attacked by common garden pests like aphids, caterpillars in all areas, and fruit flies in warm climates. Pyrethrum- based insecticides will take care of the aphids and caterpillars. Ask for assistance when buying and using fruit fly controls – there are specific products available.