The big cluster of developing makopa (wax apple) fruits in above photo is that of Star Ruby, the most commercialized variety in Thailand and Vietnam. Some tree owners will simply love the big cluster and do nothing to change it.

The truth of the matter is that if some fruits in the cluster are not thinned out, the fruits will be very small. The recommendation is that only one or two fruits should be retained in the cluster. That way, bigger fruits that are more fleshy and sweeter will be produced. The developing fruits should also be bagged either by paper or cloth bag to protect them from fruit fly damage.

Other imported makopa varieties that produce clusters of fruits are the green, the maroon and the golden. The excess fruits in each cluster should be removed.

The cluster in photo is the fruit of the Star Ruby mother tree at the Sarian Farm in Teresa, Rizal. Marcotted planting materials are available at the farm. Contact Rose at 0915-434-4216 for information.