End-of-year family banquets can generate very different responses in all of us. Some families may get along, others may not. Some family members may get along, others may not. You may get planted next to your favourite uncle, or you might get stranded next to a less-than-savoury one.
It’s exactly the same in your garden. Some plants get along extremely well, protect, nurture and bring out the best in each other, while others would rather uproot themselves and go next door. Knowing more about your garden family will help you situate them in such a way that your garden flourishes in strength and vitality.
The right (or wrong) combination of certain plants, or veggies, could make them more (or less) productive. Growing certain plants in close proximity to one another may help deter pests, promote growth and even improve flavour. On the opposite side of the scale, certain plants, when planted too close together, may actually harm or stunt growth.
With the festivities well behind us now, it’s time to turn our attention back to healthy eating and preparing for the coming seasons. However, just because they are all plants, doesn’t necessarily mean they grow well together.
Here are some examples of “I’d rather not sit next to you, please!”
Potatoes do not like Tomatoes or Cucumber
But Potatoes and Cabbage are friends
However, Cabbage does not like Radish
Beans do not like Garlic, Onions, Beets or Cucumber
But Beans love Carrots, Chard, Cabbage, Corn, Peas and Radish
Carrots love Peas, Tomatoes and Onion
Beets love Onion, Cabbage and Potato
Basil and Dill are natural protectors of Tomatoes
And Sage will protect Cabbage,
Peas do not like too much water, and Mint repels Ants, and so forth.
Google has a wealth of specific information for your particular needs.
Start as you mean to continue. There’s nothing like starting with a clean slate, and that’s what new years are all about. New beginnings. It might all seem overwhelming, but starting with your garden tools and the tool shed, or garage, is usually a good place. Clean, oil and sharpen all your tools. Fix, replace or upgrade damaged tools with new ones that make specific jobs easier. Consider donating older (not broken) tools to a worthy cause.
Investing in and completing this important project will give you a sense of readiness, and eagerness, to tackle new garden tasks. Deciding what’s next is obviously subjective depending on where your garden is at, how you have been attending to it, as well as your vision for the future.
Having a vision and a plan (and allocating a budget to cover it) is vital. This will save you time and money, not to mention frustration when things aren’t working as well as you ‘didn’t’ plan for.
The next step could be the good old clean-up! Pruning, trimming, cutting back, mowing, doing edges, weeding, mulching, etc. Also think about discarding the debris (never to be overlooked, as it can really pile up).
Right, now what are you going to plant? Firstly, I cannot stress enough the importance of soil health as the basis for all healthy growth. Having a balanced nutrient base will go a long way to ensuring your plants flourish and have a rich base for secure root development and growth. If you are unsure, taking a good sample of your soil down to your local nursery or garden shop, will help the experts to point you in the right direction with regard to organics and fertilisers. Learning about and starting your own organic composter will not only help with kitchen scraps, but in turn will cost you less at the store – and helps you do your bit to help mother nature.
A diverse mix of annuals, perennials, flowers and vegetables make for a healthy garden landscape. Not only will your body enjoy the fruits of your labour, but pleasing aromas and eye candy, together with the buzzing of the bees and whispering butterflies can help soothe away the cares of the day. If your garden and lifestyle allow, consider installing a small beehive.
If you’ve always wanted to invest in a garden, but have no idea how to start, it’s always good to begin with low-maintenance plants that come back each year, so you don’t have to replant every season. Water-wise plants also make a lot of sense given our warmer climate, and are extremely attractive in almost any setting.
View a garden like you would a pool on a hot day… if you are really keen, you will jump in. It might be a shock at first, but don’t be afraid to take that leap of faith, you will soon learn how to swim.
For more gardening tips or to connect with me please visit my website or find me on social media.


The Terra Soil Conference marks the conclusion of the collaborative research project between Geological Survey Ireland and Teagasc. Initiated in 2018, the Terra Soil project aims to derive agronomic and environmental indicators from Tellus soil sample data. The final conference will serve as the platform for the official release of new datasets, maps, reports, and scientific papers produced during this period.
Dr. Karen Daly from Teagasc and Dr. Jim Hodgson from Geological Survey Ireland will kick off the event with an overview of Terra Soil, the official data release, and future plans. Following this, Niall Ryan from DAFM will give a talk on policy, particularly focusing on the data needed for EU soil monitoring law. Dr. Rebecca Hall and Dr. Felipe Bachion de Santa from Teagasc, who will overview the main results from Terra Soil. After which, Dr. Olaf Schmidt from UCD will present on the link between soil geochemistry and biodiversity. The event will conclude with a panel discussion on the value of soil data, chaired by Ray Scanlon from Geological Survey Ireland.
All data produced by Terra Soil will be available for free on the Geological Survey Ireland website. For more information about Terra Soil, click here.
If you are interested in attending please email firstname.lastname@example.org.


It seemed like I had been here, there and everywhere
Scanning the shelves but to no avail
Absolutely perfect 🙂
In the shops now – Imperial mandarins – my favourite ray of sunshine during winter in Melbourne.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Did you know:- and I read this somewhere but can’t find the source….
Mandarins originated from southern China and were named after the Chinese officials of the Imperial court the “Mandarins” who used the fruit for various medicinal purposes.
Imperial mandarins are the first domestic mandarin variety to be harvested each year, picked April through to May. Imperials are refreshing and exuberantly orange in colour and are one of only a handful of popular varieties that originated here in Australia. The variety was first recognised in Sydney in 1890 and has since become the most popular mandarin on the market due to that sweet ‘everybody loves’ flavour. The easy to peel skin and minimal seeds, makes them a family favourite, great for snacks and school lunches.source
Fat free, saturated fat free, cholesterol free, sodium free, they are an excellent source of vitamin C and a good source of vitamin A
I prefer mandarins to oranges – What fruits do you enjoy more than others?


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Lots of Hope
Lots of Hope is located at the Pittsburgh Project on the North Side of Pittsburgh. It is a non profit community development agency, with a purpose of "Developing servant leaders and upholding the dignity of vulnerable homeowners."
Lots of Hope reclaimed an abandoned baseball field for nature. The area is now perfect for the community to plant and harvest fruits and vegetables. Outside of the garden, families can relax and have picnics in the wooded area that is mostly cleared out of debris.
The rain garden will act to absorb rain water runoff which can be a source of a wide variety of pollutants. The gardens prevent the rain water from polluting natural waterways through ground filtration. Further, rain gardens can prevent flooding of sewer systems.
Throug Lots of Hope, we have explained how service learning can help connect what is learned in the classroom with real-world applications. We have also learned the rewards of service leadership and model this to encourage others to do likewise. Finally, we identifiedcommunicational skills needed in working with and determining the needs of the community.


250ml. Parioli Olive Grove is a small Central Otago family run grove of 408 trees. Most of the trees have now reached full maturity and bear a full crop of fruit. The main varieties of trees grown are Barnea, Minerva, South Australian Veradale, Frantoio and Chamlali.
As is the style of boutique oils, our oil varies from year to year and variety to variety, much the same as wines vary by vintage and variety of grape. Central Otago oils show strong character and have distinctive flavours, often with a peppery finish. The oil tends to have a greener colour as the chlorophyll content of the olive is still quite high when we pick. This comes through to the oil when it is pressed.


Being a new boy to growing vegetables I was looking for a potato which would be early and suitable for salads.
I selected the Rocket potato and it is certainly living up to its name. Planting them at the end of March most of the very cold weather was behind us. Our soil has a clay and sandy content.
I mixed seven wheel barrow loads of compost which I had prepared over the winter.
The area I allocated for the potatoes was about 5m by 4m. I planted 3 rows and after a few weeks signs of growth appeared.
I heaped up the soil to the plants as they grew.
The directions on the packet of seed potatoes indicated they would be ready at the end of June. In the last few weeks the plants just seemed to over run the entire plot as you can see from the photograph.
As I was not sure if they were ready to dig up I decided to explore the roots and to my amazement there was a healthy crop ready to harvest.
This variety of potatoes clearly live up to their reputation giving a clear waxy texture which makes them very suitable for salads with a white skin and white flesh. Most important their taste is out of this world..
Kind thanks to David Virgo (Sussex) for submitting this article.
If you have a gardening article to submit please email us with it


TESTING OF HONEY
Isotope Analysis for Detection of the Economic Adulteration of Honey
The economic adulteration of honey with
low cost sugar syrup is known to occur with some regularity. To
provide consumer confidence and add value to quality honey produce,
many honey producers and importers have opted to test their honey purity
using the carbon-13 isotope methods recommended by the Association of
Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC). These methods can detect the adulteration
of expensive honey with cheap high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and cane
Honey Carbon-13 Analysis Package
(Cat. No.: FC31P ...............
£69.50 per sample)
See Example Laboratory Report
Our Honey Carbon-13 analysis
package allows detection of adulteration of pure honey with HFCS or cane sugar.
It is conducted every week to the standard required by AOAC methods 978.17 &
991.41 and is recommended by the British Honey Importers & Packers Association.
The first stage in the analysis is to measure the carbon-13 content
of the honey. The carbon-13 content of pure honey is distinctly different from that
of HFCS or cane sugar, allowing confirmation of gross adulteration with sugar syrup
(greater than 20 % sugar syrup). The second stage of the analysis involves extraction
of protein from honey and subsequent measurement of the carbon-13 content of the honey
protein. Finally, the carbon-13 content of the honey and the honey protein are compared.
If the honey has been adulterated with more than 7 % sugar syrup the honey
will contain significantly more carbon-13 than the honey protein.
50 grams of honey to be supplied for analysis. Samples received by 10 a.m. on Wednesday
will be reported on Friday of the same week. Our laboratory reports
include carbon-13 content of honey and honey protein, as determined by duplicate
analysis, the difference between the carbon-13 content of the honey and the protein
and an interpretation of the outcome of the analysis.
information on our isotope analyses for authentication of honey please
Email us or use our


ROI: 0 %
Duration: 7 Months
Location: Kachia, Kaduna
Insured by: Leadway Assurance Ltd.
Maize farming is very popular among farmers in many parts of the world. Maize has become a staple food in many parts of the world with a total production of maize surpassing that of wheat or rice. And maize is called the queen of cereals because it has the highest genetic yield potential among the cereals. Maize (Zea mays), also known as corn, is actually a cereal grain that is used for many different purposes. It was first domesticated by the indigenous people in southern Mexico about 10,000 years ago, and today it is very popular throughout the world. The leafy stalk of the plant produces pollen inflorescences and separate ovuliferous inflorescences called ears that yield kernels or seeds, which are fruits. The plants are often 3 meters in height (but some natural strains can grow up to 13 meters). The stem is generally composed of 20 internodes of around 18 cm length. A leaf that grows from each node, is generally 9 cm in width and about 1.2 m in length..
|SIZE||31, 32, 33, 34, 35|
|COLOR||blue, red, rosa, white|


North Carolina Scholarship Funded by the North Carolina Composting Council
05/15/2018 1:51 PM
The North Carolina Composting Council (NCCC) for the second year in a row is generously funding a CCREF/NCCC Young Investigator Scholarship. This scholarship is for college students studying at a college or university in North Carolina. The deadline to apply for the scholarship is July 31, 2018. The goal of this scholarship is to bring assistance and attention to emerging young professionals in the field of compost research and to spark interest in the future of the composting industry.
Gary Gittere, board president of NCCC, explained why the chapter decided to support this scholarship program working with CCREF. “The NC Composting Council is dedicated to the many benefits of education and is committed to providing continual support to our state universities and colleges. The NCCC will support the US Composting Council and its CCREF Young Investigator Scholarship program, by funding a $2500.00 scholarship for all North Carolina Colleges and Universities, for the 2nd year in a row. We look forward to working with the 2018 recipient, helping him or her broaden the many benefits of composting and the use of compost as a soil amendment.”


Colombia is a fruit lover’s paradise with many delicious and exotic tropical fruits that can be difficult to find in North America or Europe.
In Colombia, you can find the typical fruits that are easy to find in North America and Europe like apples, bananas, pineapples and strawberries. But one of the benefits of living in Colombia is the tropical fruits, which are delicious, inexpensive and plentiful.
Colombia is the second most bio-diverse country in the world after Brazil. The country benefits from its geographic diversity with two coasts, mountain chains, open savannas and tropical rainforests. So, the country is reportedly home to nearly 10 percent of the world’s species. The country has over 56,000 plant species registered. There are more birds and more orchids found in Colombia than are found in any other country.
So, it shouldn’t be a surprise that Colombia has a tremendous number of tropical fruits available. During my over eight years living in Medellín, I have been able to try many exotic tropical fruits that I never found while living in the U.S.
Colombian fruits are available for sale throughout Medellín. You will see normally a smaller selection of tropical fruits at grocery stores like Exito and Jumbo. In addition, there are countless small local tiendas in the city selling Colombian fruits and vegetables typically for lower prices. Also, there are many Colombian fruit vendors to be found in El Central and the Plaza Minorista market.
The above photo of fruits for sale was taken at Plaza Minorista in Medellín. At Plaza Minorista it is possible to find many exotic tropical fruits. For example, during a recent trip to Plaza Minorista, I bought 15 different exotic tropical fruits.
I have tried at least 30 exotic tropical fruits while living in Colombia. I found several that were sweet and some that were sour. In addition, many of these Colombian fruits typically aren’t eaten whole but are consumed as juice or smoothies. The 30 exotic tropical fruits found in Colombia in this article are in alphabetical order.
Colombian Fruits #1. Arazá
Taxonomic Name: Eugenia stipitata
Arazá is yellow fruit about softball size and it has several large seeds. This fruit is very sour. So, it typically is consumed as juice with sugar added or in smoothies with sweet fruits like bananas added. I haven’t seen this fruit for sale very often. But you can find it sold as an exotic jam and I have seen it used in ice cream as well.
Arazá is a native fruit tree found in the Amazon in Brazil, Colombia and Ecuador. Arazá has a high vitamin C content, which is double the amount of an average orange. It also has a high level of protein and potassium, which is a rarity for fruits.
Colombian Fruits #2. Badea (a.k.a. Giant Granadilla)
Taxonomic Name: Passiflora quadrangularis
Badea is the largest fruit in the passionfruit family. The size ranges from 10-30 cm long and 8-16 cm wide. This green fruit has a white pulpy flesh inside, which has a bit of sweetness to it. But it’s also pretty bland. So, this fruit is normally not eaten alone and is mixed with other fruits in desert or is cooked or processed and eaten in other forms.
The pulp from the Badea is reportedly used as a mild sedative. It also is nutritious with high levels of calcium, phosphorous and niacin.
Colombian Fruits #3. Banana Bocadillo (a.k.a. Lady Finger Bananas)
Taxonomic Name: Musa asuminata
Banana Bocadillos, also known as lady finger bananas are smaller than regular Cavendish bananas with thinner skin. Bocadillos taste sweeter than common bananas. Also, they tend to oxidize slower and will keep on the counter for up to a week.
Lady finger bananas are high in potassium and fiber. They are also rich in vitamins C and B5, with lesser quantities of vitamins A, E and K. In addition, they are also high in minerals such as manganese, magnesium, calcium and zinc.
Colombian Fruits #4. Borojó
Taxonomic Name: Alibertia patinoi
Borojó is a dark round fruit that has a reputation in Colombia as being a natural Viagra. This fruit is grown primarily in the Chocó region of Colombia. It’s green when unripe but turns brown when mature and falls to the ground for easy collection.
When I tried this fruit, I found it somewhat bitter but pleasant. In juice form, it normally has honey added. It’s also sold in jam form.
This fruit is a natural source of energy due to a high level of B vitamins. In addition, Borojó in an excellent source of protein, vitamin C, calcium and iron plus it’s also high in fiber. Also, it is high in phosphorus and protein, a rarity for fruit.
Colombian Fruits #5. Caimito
Taxonomic Name: Chrysophyllum cainito
I haven’t seen this fruit sold in Medellín but found it in Cartagena. It’s a dark purple or green fruit where seeds form a star when it is cut. Caimitos reportedly will not ripen after they are picked, so they must be picked from trees when they are mature. Make sure to look for caimitos that have started to soften to make sure they are mature.
This fruit is also known as a star apple. The filling is white with a mild grape flavor that I thought was tasty. This fruit contains moderate amounts of calcium, phosphorus and ascorbic Acid. And it’s considered a good source of anti-oxidants.
Colombian Fruits #6. Carambolo (a.k.a. Starfruit)
Taxonomic Name: Averrhoa carambola
Carambolo is also known as starfruit, which got its name from the five-pointed star shape when cut across the middle. Carambolo is a small, bushy evergreen tree that grows well under hot, humid, tropical conditions.
To me, the flavor is kind of a mix of plums, pineapples and lemons. Others say the flavor is a mix of apples and grapes. The flesh of this fruit is juicy and crunchy, and it may be eaten with the skin and seeds. Carambolo is low in calories but high in fiber and vitamin C.
Warning, don’t eat carambolo if you have kidney problems. This fruit contains a neurotoxin that healthy kidneys can filter out, but damaged kidneys are unable to do so.
Colombian Fruits #8. Cherimoya (a.k.a. Sugar Apple)
Taxonomic Name: Annona cherimola
The cherimoya, also known as the sugar apple, is irregularly oval or heart shaped. Ripe cherimoyas have a sweet, fragrant aroma. A cherimoya has a creamy pulp that can been eaten straight from the fruit. In my experience, it has the consistency of ice cream. The large black seeds and skin are inedible.
This fruit is also used in smoothies and pie fillings. A single cherimoya provides 7 grams of fiber and is also high in vitamin C and potassium.
Colombian Fruits #9. Chontaduro
Taxonomic Name: Bactris gasipaes
Chontaduro is a fruit that grows in a cluster on a palm tree that is common from the Pacific region of Colombia. These fruits have very hard flesh, so they are normally cooked for 3-5 hours. This fruit is tasty after being cooked and to me tastes like a sweet potato. I have seen it sold with salt and honey spread on top.
You can find chontaduro in Medellín in El Centro and also in Plaza Minorista. This fruit has as much protein as eggs and is also rich in vitamin A, zinc, cooper, calcium, iron and beta-carotene. It also has high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Colombian Fruits #10. Ciruela
Taxonomic Name: Spondius purpurea
Ciruelas are also known as Spanish plums. It has a sweet and juicy flavorful skin and flesh. In addition, it has a big seed inside. Don’t eat the seed as it’s toxic. Ciruelas are like plums but taste to me kind of like a mix of a tomato and apple. They are eaten fresh, squeezed for juice or preserved.
This fruit is rich in in vitamin C and serves as an antioxidant. Also, Ciruelas are boiled and used as an antiseptic for preventing infection of wounds.
Colombian Fruits #11. Corozo
Taxonomic Name: Bactris guineensis
Corozo is a small red fruit that grows on palm trees. I have only seen this fruit along the coast. This acidic fruit is collected and boiled in water sweetened with panela to obtain burgundy colored syrup. This syrup is used to make a tasty juice as well as jam, jelly and ice cream.
In my experience, it tastes somewhat like cranberry. In addition, the syrup can be fermented to make a wine. Sucre even holds a festival in honor of corozo.
Colombian Fruits #11. Curuba
Taxonomic Name: Passiflora tarminania
Curuba is a fruit with a yellow pulp and black seeds that is sometimes called the “banana passionfruit”. Furthermore, Curuba is usually eaten raw and is better in my experience when mixed with some sugar and milk. It has a high pectin content so this fruit is used in jams and also as a pie filling.
In addition, Curuba is full of proanthocyanidins, which are powerful antioxidants, and this fruit is reportedly is being used by some to prevent damage caused by pollution.
Colombian Fruits #12. Feijoa
Taxonomic Name: Acca sellowiana
The feijoa is an egg-shaped, lime-green fruit that is sometimes known as the “pineapple guava”. The skin sometimes has a red or orange blush. And the texture of the skin ranges from smooth to rough. The creamy white flesh inside is somewhat sweet and tastes kind of like a combination of pineapple and strawberry with possibly some spearmint thrown in.
Feijoas are low in calories and are also a rich source of fiber. 100 grams of fruit is only about 55 calories but 6.5 grams of dietary fiber. In addition, they are a good source of vitamin C. Feijoas also contain small portions of B-complex vitamins and vitamin E and K as well as minerals such as calcium and magnesium.
Colombian Fruits #13. Granadilla
Taxonomic Name: Passiflora ligularis
Granadilla is a round fruit with a hard and shiny orange skin. It is easy to find, as it’s a popular fruit in Colombia. This fruit is considered a cousin to maracuyá. Both have a similar texture and color. But the granadilla is sweeter compared to the acidic maracuyá.
The granadilla fruit contains a jelly-like pulp with seeds that are edible. This fruit can be eaten fresh and to me tastes like a mild maracuyá. The tart and sweet pulp is also used to make juice, jam, ice cream and a number of desserts.
Granadilla is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C and vitamin A. In addition, it’s a good source of potassium, copper, iron, magnesium and phosphorus.
Colombian Fruits #14. Guama (or Guaba)
Taxonomic Name: Inga edulis
Guama is a delicious fruit that is also known as the ice cream bean. It can be more difficult to find in my experience. I’ve occasionally seen guama being sold in El Centro in Medellín. This is a unique and very unusual pod fruit.
The dark green pods can be a long as your forearm. Inside the pods are found what looks like white cotton candy wrapped around seeds. The seeds are inedible unless cooked. And the white pulp is stretchy and a bit sticky. It has the sweetness of a banana but a taste that is quite different.
Guama is a good source of dietary fiber and anti-oxidants. Furthermore, reportedly this fruit is anti-inflammatory and can help lower blood pressure.
Colombian Fruits #15. Guanabana
Taxonomic Name: Annona muricata
Guanabana is an exotic-looking, large green spiky fruit. This sizable fruit can be sizable and weigh up to nine pounds. The juicy, white flesh of this fruit tastes to me kind of like a combination of pineapple and strawberry while also being somewhat creamy. But I didn’t really like the texture, which was kind of slimy. In addition, this fruit is frequently used in juices, smoothies and ice cream.
Guanabana is a good source of vitamin C, B vitamins, calcium, phosphorous and even some iron. Furthermore, guanabana is popular for its supposed cancer-fighting properties, which haven’t been proven scientifically.
Colombian Fruits #16. Guava (Guayaba)
Taxonomic Name: Psidium guajava
Guava is a round or pear-shaped fruit that is green in color. It’s one of my favorite fruits found in Colombia. They are typically soft, sweet and fragrant when ripe. Inside is a pink interior that has tiny seeds that are also edible. Guava can be eaten raw or consumed as juice, jams and jellies. Also, guava is the base for bocadillo, the gelatinous bricks sold in Colombia.
Guava is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B-6, folate, thiamine and riboflavin. In addition, it has calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium and potassium.
Colombian Fruits #17. Gulupa
Taxonomic Name: Passiflora edulis
The gulupa belongs in the passionfruits family. The shell of the fruit is a smooth, thick and dark purple. You can tell when a gulupa is ripe as the purple skin becomes wrinkled. The yellow and juicy pulp inside covers dark seeds that are edible.
A gulupa has a pretty unique flavor, mildly sweet and also sour. If you cut a gulupa in half you can scoop out the pulp with a spoon to eat. But it’s normally used in juices and smoothies. In addition, gulupa is an excellent source of vitamin C and is believed to also help control tension.
Colombian Fruits #18. Higo
Taxonomic Name: Opuntia ficus-indica
Higo is available in both reddish-orange and green varieties. This fruit looks like a cactus and it does actually grow on a cactus. So, be careful of the thorns. The flesh inside is a deep-orange color with small hard seeds. To me the flavor of the higo is similar to a non-sour kiwi.
Higo is a good source of dietary fiber as well as vitamin A and several minerals including copper, iron and magnesium.
Colombian Fruits #19. Lulo
Taxonomic Name: Solanum quitoense
Lulo looks like an orange from the outside and more like a translucent tomato on the inside. The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. But Lulo for most people is too tart to eat alone. So, it’s most common use is for juices. Lulos are also used in jams, jellies and ice cream.
Lulo fruit has high levels of vitamin C, vitamin A, niacin, riboflavin and thiamine. It also has calcium, iron, phosphorous and dietary fiber.
Colombian Fruits #20. Mangosteen
Taxonomic Name: Garcinia mangostana
Mangosteen is a fruit that grows on an evergreen tree. In Southeast Asia, the mangosteen is known as the “fruit of the gods”. The hard rind of the mangosteen is reddish-purple when ripe. Inside is a white flesh with a milk-like juice.
The taste of the mangosteen to me is a sweet and tangy combination that is pretty unique. Others have said it has a taste that is a combination of several other fruits like strawberries, kiwis, plums, peaches and mangos. It’s one of my favorite fruits in Colombia.
Mangosteen is a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. In addition, they are low in calories with only 63 calories per 100 grams of fruit. Furthermore, different parts of the mangosteen and plant are reportedly used in the treatment of various diseases and disorders, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, tuberculosis and Alzheimer’s disease.
Colombian Fruits #21. Mamoncillo (a.k.a. Spanish Lime)
Taxonomic Name: Melicocus bijugatus
Mamoncillo is a small green fruit that grow on branches. And they are a little larger than olives. They are also known as chenet, genipe, limoncillo, mamón, Spanish lime, and many other names.
Mamoncillo have a thin skin that is hard and rigid that can be cracked with your teeth. Inside is an orange and yellowish fruit that is creamy and juicy similar to a lychee. One can be eaten fresh after peeling the skin. The taste is normally tangy and a bit sweet. Because of the small amount of edible fruit, it can be boiled and used in cold drinks. It is also used in juices and jam.
Mamoncillo is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, calcium and phosphorus. But be careful, make sure that mamoncillo fruits are ripe, as raw ones may contain some toxins.
Colombian Fruits #22. Maracuyá
Taxonomic Name: Passiflora edulis
Maracuyá is also known as passionfruit. This fruit has a thick yellow skin. The pulp of the maracuyá is extremely tart when eaten alone. So, many that eat it this fruit raw mix it with sugar. However, maracuyá is mainly used to make a delicious juice.
Maracuyá is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin B, riboflavin and niacin, as well as copper, iron, magnesium phosphorus and potassium.
Colombian Fruits #23. Nispero (a.ka. Loquat)
Taxonomic Name: Eriobotrya japonica
Nispero is a yellow to orange fruit and ripe fruits have a soft texture. Inside the flesh is white or golden yellow. Also, it will typically have up to five seeds that are not edible. Nisperos to me have a pretty similar taste to apples, both tart and sweet. But nisperos have a more soft and juicy texture.
Nisperos are low in calories but are rich in dietary fiber, pectin and vitamin A. Furthermore, the fruit is a good source of calcium, copper, iron and other minerals. In addition, the nispero has been called a super-fruit with claims that it has cancer fighting properties and also helps maintain a healthy blood pressure.
Colombian Fruits #24. Papaya
Taxonomic Name: Carica papaya
Papayas are pear-shaped or spherical fruits that can be as long as 20 inches and weigh up to 20 pounds but the ones typical found in markets normally are about one pound. The flesh of a papaya is a rich orange color. Inside the inner cavity of a papaya are found seeds that are edible but taste somewhat bitter. Once you get past the smell of papayas, they tend to be tender and sweet.
In my experience, people seem to either love the flavor of papaya or hate it. My Colombia wife loves eating cubed papaya but I don’t really care for the fruit.
Papayas are rich sources of vitamin C (more than oranges), vitamin A and B-complex vitamins. In addition, they are a source of copper, magnesium and potassium. Furthermore, the papaya is low in calories and has a good amount of dietary fiber.
Colombian Fruits #25. Papayuela
Taxonomic Name: Vasconcellea pubescens
Papayuela is a dark yellow or orange fruit when ripe. The flesh of a papayuela is similar to the papaya, but not as strong. Inside the pulp is a kind of jelly-like with seeds that look almost like tiny pine cones. This fruit is commonly cooked into candies or preserves. But it can also be eaten fresh. To me, the flavor of the papayuela is kind of a mix of an orange, pineapple and strawberry.
Papayuela is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C and vitamin A. In addition, it’s a source of copper, magnesium and potassium.
Colombian Fruits #26. Piñuela
Taxonomic Name: Bromelia pinguin
Piñuela is a small shallot-shaped fruit. To eat one, it is peeled like a banana. Inside is a white floss with seeds that tastes fairly tart in my experience and it is used in juices. The piñuela fruit is reportedly more common in in the Cauca Department in Colombia, near the Pacific coast. I have only seen this fruit a few times in Medellín.
Piñuela is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium and zinc.
Colombian Fruits #27. Pitaya or Pitahaya
Taxonomic Name: Pitaya stenocereus
Pitaya is also known as dragon fruit due to its thick yellow scales. Inside the white flesh is flecked with an abundance of tiny black seeds that are edible. The flavor is mild, which to me tastes like a combination of a kiwi and a pear. I typically cut a pitaya in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon.
Pitaya are low in calories but rich in nutrients. They contain vitamin C, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and several B vitamins, as well as carotene and protein. In addition, calcium, iron and phosphorus is present.
Colombian Fruits #28. Tomate de Arbol
Taxonomic Name: Solanum betaceum
Tomate de Arbol is a red or orange colored egg-shaped fruit. Inside the flesh is orange and juicy with numerous small seeds. The flavor is a bit sweet and is also somewhat tart. It can be eaten alone or sprinkled with salt. This fruit is mainly used to make juice. And this juice is popular with menú del dia offerings at many local restaurants in Colombia.
Tomate de Arbol is a very low-calorie food with only 31 calories per 100 grams of fruit. It is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E. It’s also a source of copper, iron, magnesium and phosphorus.
Colombian Fruits #29. Uchuva
Taxonomic Name: Physalis peruviana
Uchuva are small, round, bright yellow fruits that are encased in delicate paper-like husk. They are small sized like a cherry and have a similar texture. The flavor is tart while also being sweet. In Colombia, they seem to like selling uchuva with honey or chocolate. Uchuva are also used in pies, puddings, ice cream and eaten fresh in fruit salads.
Uchuva has more dietary fiber than prunes, is a good source of B12 and is a good source of phosphorous and vitamins A and C. Uchuva are ripe when the outer husk is dry and comes off easy. Be careful as unripe uchuva fruits are reportedly poisonous. But I’ve never seen unripe uchuva being sold.
Colombian Fruits #30. Zapote
Taxonomic Name: Quararibea cordata
Zapote is a roundish brown fruit with a rough texture. Inside the flesh is dark orange and creamy with two large seeds. This fruit can be eaten raw. However, I didn’t like the strong flavor of the zapote when I tried one.
In addition, it is commonly used in smoothies, milk shakes and ice cream as well as jams and jellies.
Zapote is a good source for dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin E, riboflavin, niacin, manganese and potassium.
Medellin Guru’s Guide to Colombian Food and Drinks
On the Medellin Guru website, we have six articles covering Colombian food and drinks:
- 16 Traditional Colombian Food Dishes You Must Try in Colombia
- 16 Colombian Street Food Options You Really Must Try
- 17 Popular Colombian Desserts You Must Try While in Colombia
- 30 Exotic Tropical Fruits of Colombia a Fruit Lovers Paradise
- 13 Traditional Colombian Drinks to Try When You Visit
- 12 Popular Colombian Soups to Try When You Visit Colombia
The Bottom Line: Exotic Tropical Fruits of Colombia
According to data reported by the Alexander Von Humboldt Biological Resources Research Institute, it is believed that in Colombia there are at least 400 different types of fruits and seeds, which positions Colombia as one of the countries with the most variety worldwide.
Several of the Colombian fruits listed above you can find in the local groceries stores in Medellín. But for a bigger selection of tropical fruits you’ll have to go to a market like Plaza Minorista. On any given day, you can likely find up to 20 of the above 30 tropical fruits on sale at Plaza Minoresta.
After living in Medellín for over seven years, my favorite tropical fruits now include the carambolo, guava, mangosteen, mamoncillo, pitaya and uchuva.
How many of the 30 tropical fruits listed above have you tried? And which of these Colombian tropical fruits is your favorite?
Sign up for the Free Medellin Guru Newsletter – You can see all of the previous Medellin Guru weekly email newsletters and sign up here.
Updated June 13, 2023 with information about Alexander Von Humboldt Biological Resources Research Institute.


Most times, it is quite daunting having to identify one good lavender farming company among the many that are available in the market. That is why this is a process that should be taken with all the keenness to ensure that only the best lavender farming company is chosen to render the services. To help in the selection process of the best lavender farming company, some of the outlined factors should be put into consideration.
To start with, one should ensure that a licensed lavender farming company is hired for the services. The reason being that the presence of a license often indicates that the given lavender farming company has been approved to operate in the market legally. Also, it is by hiring a lavender farming company that one is assured of professionalism being enhanced when the services are being offered. This is attributed to the fact that these services are given by individuals that have undergone the proper training in the given field. This is always of the requirements that one must meet to be in a position of being offered the license. In this case, customer satisfaction is a guarantee when one is working with such a lavender farming company.
Next, the location factor of the lavender farming company should be put into consideration. Putting into consideration this factor at an early stage of choosing a lavender farming company will help one is identifying a lavender farming company that is reliable in the services being provided. In this case, reliability means that the services will be rendered by the lavender farming company on time and the way that they are supposed to. This is after the two parties coming together and planning for the way to undertake the given services to the latter. This is always made possible when the client and the lavender farming company are from the same locality. Also, this is crucial since the different localities are often subjected to different operating rules. Therefore, by choosing a lavender farming company that is from the same locality as that of the client, it is quite easier for them to operate the laid rules as they are all conversant with them.
Lastly, listening to what past clients of the lavender farming company have to say about the services rendered by the lavender farming company is crucial. In most instances, this often determines the reputation that the given lavender farming company has in the market. In this case, an individual should ensure to give a listening ear to the opinions of the clients that have been served in this market before. Since their opinions and views on the lavender farming company are based on the experiences that they had when they interacted with the given lavender farming company, one is in a position of easily choosing a lavender farming company to work with. Also, understanding the reputation of the lavender farming company helps one have a closure of the operation of the lavender farming company and the quality of services that given lavender farming company has for its clients.


2016 Lectures & Events at Slater Mill
Free & open to the public
Saturday, March 19; 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
“Herb Gardening with an Historic Flair”
Presented by Jeff Rossi, a Hall of Fame URI Master Gardener, and project leader for the Dr. Ruben Mason Medicinal Garden in historic Chepachet, RI.
Thursday, April 7; 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Re-creating the Sylvanus Brown House Garden
A combined presentation by Slater Mill staff (history of Sylvanus Brown House), and garden leaders Beverly Burgess and Linda McDaniel (the first year in the garden).
Saturday, April 23; 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Earth Day Garden Talks and Clean-Up
The URI Master Gardeners will offer free soil testing, seeds, as well as information and advice on seed starting, soil testing, garden preparation, and pruning in short talks on the half-hour. Slater Mill will host a site clean up day.
Saturday, June 11; 10 a.m. to Noon
Linda Hall will speak on Pollinators, and the types of flowers to which these important birds and bees are attracted.
Saturday, August 27 (all day, during SAM FEST)
URI Master Gardeners welcome visitors to the garden for free soil testing, advice and tours.
About the site: In 2014, the URI Master Gardeners adopted the Sylvanus Brown House garden at Slater Mill as a Community Project. Led by volunteers Beverly Burgess and Linda McDaniel, the garden now grows herbs, vegetables, fibers, and ornamentals typical of an 18th century American garden. Our garden feeds the hungry, and educates students and the public.