Loquat Tree

Loquat is a yellow-orange fruit that is juicy, sweet, and tangy, with a flavor reminiscent of apricots and citrus, and large, smooth brown seeds in the center. Loquats grow on attractive, evergreen trees that reach 15-30 feet that feature large, glossy green leaves and fragrant white flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring. The tree bears clusters of small, yellow-orange loquats that typically ripens in late spring to early summer, that are perfect to harvest for fresh eating, jellies, jams, wines, or even dried like apricots for long-term storage. Loquat trees have been cultivated in China for over a thousand years and was since made popular in Japanese gardens. Loquat plants have many health properties, for instance, its leaves were traditionally used for herbal syrups and teas for throat and chest soothing. This tree rich in benefits makes for a delightful addition to temperate and subtropical gardens.

Also Known As: Japanese Plum, Nispero, Chinese Plum, Maltese Plum, Japanese Medlar, Bibasse, Pipa, May Apple, Biwa, Ameixa Amarela, Pumelo, Loquat Fruit.

Plant Name:	Tree, Loquat
Latin Name:	Eriobotrya japonica
Days to Germinate:	90
Years to Fruit:	20 - 25 Years
Plant Height:	15 - 30 Feet
Spread:	10 - 25 Feet
Growth Habit:	Upright
USDA Zones:	8-11
Lifespan:	Perennial
Brand:	TomorrowSeeds
Sunlight:	Full Sun, Partial Shade
Pollination:	Heirloom, Open-Pollinated
GMO:	No
Fungicide-Treated Seeds*:	No
Seeds Packed For**:	2025

*Fungicide-treated seeds protect the seedlings from diseases until they are up and growing. Do not eat treated seeds.
**Seeds are freshly packed for the growing season of the year listed. Seeds are still viable beyond pack date. Store in a cool and dry location such as the refrigerator or basement to best preserve germination rates.

Planting Instructions:

Soil Preparation:

Choose a clear, sunny location that is not in the shade of other trees and receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Trees establish roots better in sandy, well-drained soils rather than heavy, poorly drained soil. Remove weeds, large rocks, and litter from the planting area. Leave small weeds and dead grass, they will enrich the soil when turned under. Spade or till the soil 6-8 inches deep. Loosening the soil will help the plant establish strong roots. If the soil is heavy or clay-like, mix in some sand or compost to improve drainage. Optionally, either form rows of soil beds or hills 4-6 inches high and at least 30 feet apart. This formation of ridges will help with drainage, ensure good airflow, and make harvesting or maintenance easier.

Planting:

Starting Indoors: Loquat Tree seeds do not require cold-stratification to germinate but germination may take place after about 3 months. To germinate seeds, plant indoors in small pots with moist potting soil 1 month before the last expected frost in spring, and place the pots in a warm, sunny location that is at least 75F. Keep the soil moist, allowing the top inch of soil to dry in between waterings.

Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of leaves and are at least 6 inches in height, harden off seedlings then transplant outdoors in the spring, in a sunny location when temperatures are consistently above 70F. To transplant seedlings, prepare a transplant hole outdoors in a sunny, permanent location. Remove the plants carefully from the pots or flats and set them in the transplant holes, burying some of the stem in the ground. Pack the soil loosely around the plant and leave a slightly sunken area around each plant to hold water. Water the plants after transplanting.

Directly Sowing: If directly sowing outdoors plant in spring in a sunny location when temperatures are consistently above 75F. To plant, make holes 1 inch deep and spaced 30 feet apart down the rows of raised beds. Plant 1 seed per hole, then cover thinly with soil. Seedbeds can be covered with plastic film to promote germination. Water after planting.

Planting Depth:	1 inch
Within-Row Spacing:	30 feet
Between-Row Spacing:	30 feet

Care During the Season:

Loquat Tree produces delicious fruit year after year with proper care. In spring, optionally provide a balanced fertilizer to promote development. Regular watering is beneficial, especially during dry spells. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. In autumn, when the tree begins to set fruit, reduce watering to avoid encouraging excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruiting. Loquats generally require minimal pruning, as they naturally develop a dense canopy. In winter, while loquats are relatively cold-hardy, protection from frost may be necessary in areas with harsh winters.

Harvesting:

Loquat is best picked when fully ripened, when the fruit turns from green to a yellow-orange color and is soft when pressed. The fruit should be firm but give a little when gently squeezed. To harvest, use your hands or pruning shears to carefully cut or twist the fruit from the tree, making sure to leave the stem attached to prevent bruising and spoilage. Loquats ripen at different times on the same tree, so it’s often necessary to harvest the fruit in multiple stages as it ripens. Loquats can be eaten fresh, but they also store well in the refrigerator for a few days or can be preserved by canning or making jams.