In areas where rainfall is scant, the tree is irrigated. Soil Dr. Wilson Popenoe observed that the tree was not particular as to soil but should prosper in rich, loose loam. In Florida, it performs better on deep sand than on oolitic limestone. Propagation Ilama seeds, taken from ripe fruits, remain dormant for several weeks or even months and the germination rate thereafter is low. Applications of gibberellic acid at 350 ppm greatly increases germination.
Higher concentrations cause malformations in the seedlings.
Seedlings begin to bear when 3 to 5 years old. The harvesting season begins in late June in Mexico and lasts only a few weeks. Traditionally, the fruits are not picked until they have begun to crack open, but they can be picked a little earlier and held up to 3 days to soften. They will not ripen if harvested too early. The yield is typically low.