How to Grow Loquat

Ever tried or seen a loquat? They were once popular in all Aussie backyards, but strangely fell out of flavor, we’re not sure why! Especially when the tree makes a gorgeous specimen in the garden and the golden-yellow fruit is delicious eaten fresh, stewed or turned into a jam. Loquats will grow in most parts of Australia, except cold climates like Hobart and mountain regions.

Full sun

Slightly acidic, well drained soil

Pick when ripe from late spring (depending on the variety)

Water regularly

How to grow loquats in a garden

Step 1

Choose a sunny spot with well drained soil. Enrich the soil with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser. If the soil is clay based, add gypsum and fork in well.

Step 2

Dig the planting hole twice as wide and to the same depth as the root-ball. Remove the shrub from the container, gently tease the roots and cut away any circled or tangled roots.

Step 3

Position in hole and backfill with soil, gently firming down. Form a raised or doughnut shaped ring of soil around the outer edge of the plant's root zone. This helps keep water where it's needed. Always water in well after planting to settle the soil around the roots and keep the soil moist for several weeks while the new plant establishes.

Step 4

Mulch around the base with organic mulch like bark chips, sugarcane or pea straw, keeping it away from the trunk.

Step 5

Water deeply, once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions.

Step 6

Apply Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser yearly – once in spring, summer and autumn. When in flower, feed weekly with Yates Thrive Citrus & Fruit Plant Food to help promote more flowering and fruiting.

How to grow loquats in a pot

Step 1

Choose a pot at least 600mm wide. Position in full sun and fill with quality potting mix, such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter.