When it comes to the world of fruits, the Dream Atemoya – a variety of Atemoya – has a unique place.
It’s a fruit that marries exceptional taste with rich nutritional benefits.
But what is it, exactly?
What is the Dream Atemoya
Origin and History
The late Wayne Clifton introduced the Dream atemoya, first grown in Bradenton, Florida.
The ‘Dream’ Annona tree is said to have come from initially a cherimoya (Annona cherimola) seed, but there is much speculation about whether it is an Atemoya or Cherimoya.
The reason for the speculation is that some say the dream Annona started from a cherimoya seed rather than an atemoya seed.
Atemoya is a hybrid fruit, originated from a cross between the sugar apple (Annona squamosa) and the cherimoya (Annona cherimola), both native to the tropical regions of the Americas.
Due to its vigorous growth and fruit set in Florida, I think the dream cultivar is an atemoya (Annona atemoya) and not a cherimoya (Annona cherimola).
I have grown several cherimoyas from seed, and many struggle to grow as vigorously as my dream atemoya tree in Bradenton, Florida.
The ‘Dream’ Atemoya is a specific cultivar known for its superior taste and texture.
Physical Characteristics
The Dream Atemoya has a peculiar yet inviting appearance. It’s heart-shaped with bumpy skin that turns green to yellow as it ripens.
Its white, custard-like flesh is creamy and fragrant, dotted with a few inedible black seeds.
The Cultivation of Dream Atemoya
Planting Techniques
Dream Atemoya, like its parent fruits, grows best in well-drained soils with a good supply of organic matter.
They are propagated by grafting, which ensures the trees bear fruit within 2-3 years.
Climate and Soil Requirements
This fruit prefers a tropical to subtropical climate, tolerating only light cold spells with protection.
Dream Atemoya thrives best in well-drained, slightly acidic soil with high organic content.
Health Benefits of Dream Atemoya
Nutritional Values
The Dream Atemoya is not just delightful in taste; it’s also a powerhouse of nutrients.
It’s rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, and iron.
Medical Benefits
Besides the nutritional benefits, this fruit also holds potential health benefits.
It may support cardiovascular health, improve digestion, and even aid in maintaining optimal skin health.
Fertilizing the Dream Atemoya Tree
Like other Annonaceae trees, the Dream Atemoya tree requires a balanced supply of nutrients for optimal growth and fruit production.
It can benefit from a fertilizer specifically designed for tropical fruit trees. It is recommended to apply a slow release or organic fertilizer every 3 – 4 months – especially in Floridas sandy soils where nutrients may be scarce if the soil has not been worked on such as mulching and organic breakdown.
In addition to regular fertilization, Dream Atemoya can benefit from nutrient sprays, which provide essential micronutrients directly to the tree through the leaves, aiding in faster absorption and overall tree health.
Pest Management
Pests can pose a problem to the Dream Atemoya tree. Common pests are the Annona seed borer, Scale, Mealy bugs, and Potato leaf hoppers which can damage the fruit and growth production.
Regular monitoring and appropriate pest control measures are necessary to ensure the healthy growth of the tree.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, which include using beneficial insects, organic pesticides, and careful monitoring, are recommended.
Watch out for signs of pest damage, such as leaf curling, which could indicate the presence of Potato Leafhoppers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Dream Atemoya is more than just a unique fruit. It symbolizes agricultural innovation, global trade, and nature’s diversity, delivering both taste and health benefits.
Picking and Consuming Dream Atemoya
How to Pick a Good Dream Atemoya
Choosing the right Dream Atemoya is easy; look for fruits with a yellowish-green skin that yields slightly under gentle pressure.
Dream Atemoya Recipes
The Dream Atemoya can be eaten fresh, added to fruit salads, or incorporated into desserts such as ice cream.
Global Impact of Dream Atemoya
Economic Importance
Atemoya is an exotic fruit that plays a significant role in global trade, particularly in regions like Central and South America and parts of Asia.
Atemoya fruits in Florida are sold for quite high prices at local markets such as the Pinellas Farmers Market in Clearwater, Florida. Atemoyas can easily be found selling from 12 $- 20$ a pound for cultivars such as geffner, lisa, and African pride.
Environmental Impact
The cultivation of Atemoya trees contributes to biodiversity and provides a habitat for numerous beneficial insects like lizards, birds, ladybugs, and frogs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Dream Atemoya is more than just a unique fruit. It symbolizes agricultural innovation for the state of Florida, global trade, and nature’s diversity, delivering both taste and health benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does a Dream Atemoya taste like?
- It has a sweet and slightly tangy flavor with notes of berries and sweet vanilla.
- Where can I buy a Dream Atemoya tree?
- They are usually available at exotic fruit markets or online fruit retailers.
- How should I store Dream Atemoya?
- Store them at room temperature until ripe, then refrigerate.
- Can I grow Dream Atemoya at home?
- Yes, with the right climate conditions and proper care, you can grow this fruit at home.
- Are the seeds of Dream Atemoya edible?
- No, the seeds are not edible and should be removed before eating.
- What type of fertilizer is best for Dream Atemoya?
- A slow-release fertilizer designed for tropical fruit trees is recommended such as Omsocote 15-9-12.
- What pests can affect Dream Atemoya?
- Pests such as the Annona seed borer can pose a threat. Regular monitoring and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies can help control pests.
