I Want To Put Bags Around My Pomegranates As They Ripen On The Tree. I Have Some Bags Made Out Of Cotton, But I Wonder If This Wil

Question

l prevent ripening. You recommend a Ziploc bags, but I’m afraid that if I make a hole in the bottom of the wasps and other insec ts will be able to get in. My pomegranate trees are in Southern California where it’s sunny and hot all summer. They get watered with the lawn when the sprinklers come on.

Answer 1

Using cotton bags around your pomegranates can work, but it may limit air circulation, potentially slowing down the ripening process. If the bags are too tight, it can trap moisture and cause mold or mildew, especially in a hot, sunny climate like Southern California. Ziploc bags, while a bit more airtight, do tend to trap moisture, and as you mentioned, holes would be necessary to allow airflow—but that also opens the door for pests like wasps to get inside.

Instead, you might consider using mesh or breathable cloth bags designed for fruit protection. These bags allow for air circulation while still keeping pests out. You can also find bags with smaller holes that are less likely to attract insects. Keep in mind that pomegranates need plenty of sunlight and air to ripen fully, so it's important not to create an environment that's too sealed off. As for watering, be sure to avoid wetting the fruit directly, as this can cause rot, especially in high humidity.