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How to Grow and Care for a Loquat Tree
Introduction
Loquat trees are small to medium-sized evergreen trees that produce sweet, edible fruits. They’re native to China but are now grown in many warm climates around the world. Loquats are easy to grow and require minimal care, making them a great choice for beginner gardeners.
Growing Loquat Trees
- Sunlight: Loquats need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
- Soil: They prefer well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil.
- Planting: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the tree in the hole and fill it with soil, pressing down firmly to remove any air pockets. Water thoroughly and mulch around the base.
Caring for Loquat Trees
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilizing: Feed twice a year with a balanced organic fertilizer.
- Pruning: Loquats have a naturally attractive form, so they don’t need much pruning. If necessary, prune in early spring to remove dead or diseased branches and improve air circulation.
Loquat Fruit
- Harvesting: Loquats ripen in spring. They’re ready to harvest when they turn a vibrant yellow-orange color and are slightly soft to the touch.
- Nutritional value: Loquats are a good source of vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and potassium.
Propagation
- Seed: Loquats can be propagated from seed, but it can take up to 10 years for the trees to produce fruit.
- Cuttings: Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in early summer can be rooted in a pot filled with free-draining compost.
Pests and Diseases
- Mealybugs: These insects can be controlled by removing dead leaves and pruning debris.
- Honey fungus: This fungus can cause the tree to die back over several years. There is no cure, but infected trees should be removed and destroyed.
Buying a Loquat Tree
- Most loquat cultivars are not available in the UK, but the ‘true’ loquat species can be found at some nurseries.
