Tropical Guava
November 14, 2006, drizzle The tropical guava fruits are beginning to ripen now. I have 4 plants, a Mexican guava (lower photo), a Vietnamese guava (upper photo), a pink tropical guava bought at Home Deport and a seedling from a friend. They all have fruits hanging now. I can usually pick one or two ripe fruits each day. The peak time for guava harvesting will probably come in 2 or 3 weeks. There are several clues to tell if a guava is ready for harvest. The color of a fruit changes from green to pale yellow, the fruit becomes soft to touch and the fruit emits a very pleasant guava fragrance. The Vietnamese guava is an exception. It does not become soft or fragrant and is valued for its crunchiness. I usually pick the guava, let it soften further for a few days enjoying its fragrance. The fragrance is very pungent and strong. A couple of ripe guava can fill a room with their fragrance. I eat guava out of hand and devour the whole fruit, skin and seeds includ