Background

The loquat prefers the subtropics, but will grow in temperature regions.
It is an evergreen species and produces soft and juicy fruit with a flavour more similar to cherries.
The loquat probably originated in China and was then imported into Japan.
Fruit ripens in later Spring and early Summer.
Leaves are very large, spear shaped with prominent veins. Fallen leaves create a natural mulch at the base of the tree.
Flowers appear in winter and are self fertile. Only 10% of flower buds eventually form fruit.
Fruits ripen to an orange or yellow colour and become more fragrant as they ripen.
Protect fruits from birds with nets, or collect fruits just as they mature before the birds can get to them.
Fruits contain between 3 and 5 large stones.

Cultivation and Training

Loquats will grow in poor soils and will tolerate heavier clay soils.
Loquats don't like alkaline soils (lime soils).
Best soils are acid loam or clayey soils.
Trees require a sunny location. Portect from high winds.
Plant new trees in Autumn.
The tree is drought resistance, but will require irrigation for fruit production.
The loquat is a heavy feeder and will become unproductive unless compost fertiliser is added.
- A citrus fertiliser is suitable.
- One annual heavy application of mature compost is also recommended.
Training is not essential, however three to five branches starting 1m above the ground is advised.

Birds - try netting or simply collecting fruit as it ripens.
Light brown apple moth
Fruit fly - use the Cera Trap - Organic Fruit Fly Trap and the Go Natural Citrus Gall Wasp And Medfly Insect Trap as a preventative measure to capture fruit flies. Remove all fallen fruit from beneath the tree and dispose of damaged fruit by submersion in water.