It makes best vegetative growth in deep, fertile, well-drained soil but is said to be more fruitful on shallow soil. It can be cultivated on soil considered too thin and poor for most other fruit trees. Propagation Canistel seeds lose viability quickly and should be planted within a few days after removal from the fruit. The seedlings grow rapidly and begin to bear in 3 to 6 years. There is considerable variation in yield and in size and quality of fruits.
Vegetative propagation is preferred in order to hasten bearing and to reproduce the best selections.
Cuttings take a long time to root. Culture Mulching is beneficial in the early years. A balanced fertilizer applied at time of planting and during periods of rapid growth is advisable though the tree does not demand special care. Outstanding branches should be pruned back to avoid wind damage and shape the crown. Pests and Diseases Few pests and diseases attack the canistel.