🥭 Sun-Glo - A Prolific High-Quality Selection with Rich Flavor

Variety Description

Summary

Sun-Glo is a distinguished heritage selection hailing from the historic Tollgate Gardens and Michigan State University (MI-TG) trials. It is visually distinct in the orchard due to its smooth yellow skin that signals peak maturity. The fruit is notably large, often reaching up to 300g under optimal conditions, and features a rich, sweet yellow pulp. In Kentucky State University (KSU) trials, Sun-Glo proved to be a heavy producer, averaging 75 fruits per tree. As a late-season selection, it provides a consistent, high-yield harvest for growers with long enough summers to accommodate its October ripening window in northern zones.

Foundations and Pedigree

Sun-Glo emerged as one of the standout performers from the Michigan State breeding research. It has since become widely available through specialist nurseries in both Europe and North America as a reliable grafted selection, prized for its vigorous growth and "sun-kissed" visual appearance.

Fruit Specifications: Large and Luminous

Physical Attributes: The fruit size is impressively large, ranging from 79g to 300g per individual specimen. Skin and Pulp: Both the skin and the interior pulp transition to a bright, saturated yellow as the fruit ripens. Palette: It offers a classic, sweet flavor profile with a velvety consistency that is typical of high-quality Michigan selections. Commercial Value: Due to its size and attractive coloration, it is often cited as a variety with excellent local market potential.

Orchard Integrity

Efficiency: With a reported average of 75 fruits per tree in formal trials, Sun-Glo is among the more productive varieties currently in cultivation. Growth Habit: It follows the standard pawpaw growth pattern, forming a manageable, medium-sized tree (approx. 4-6 m) that is well-suited for both home and commercial orchard structures.

Management and Logistics

Maturity Timing: Northern growers in short-summer regions should ensure this tree is placed in their warmest, sunniest location to ensure the late September to early October harvest window is met. Pollination Strategy: For consistent and maximum fruit set, it is recommended to interplant with other mid-to-late blooming varieties to facilitate cross-pollination.

Environmental Adaptation

Hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Its professional breeding background ensures it is well-equipped to handle the typical temperature swings and humidity of the Midwest and East Coast.

Conclusion

Sun-Glo is a "reliable classic" that combines aesthetic beauty with high-volume production. It is a perfect choice for the orchardist who wants a variety that looks as good as it tastes. With its rich yellow tones and substantial fruit size, it continues to be a top recommendation for growers looking to round out their late-season harvest with a variety born from one of the most respected academic trials in the country.