Eriobotrya Japonica (Loquat)

• Native to southeastern China, Loquats have been cultivated for over 1000 years and thrive in Australia's temperate to subtropical climates.
• The tree produces clusters of sweet, apricot-flavoured fruit with large brown seeds, perfect for fresh eating or making jams and jellies.
• Evergreen foliage provides year-round screening and shade, with distinctive large serrated leaves that have fuzzy undersides.
• Fragrant autumn flowers attract bees and beneficial insects when few other plants are blooming, making them valuable for pollinators.

• Water deeply once or twice weekly in summer, reducing to monthly in winter when rainfall is adequate. Check soil moisture 5cm down before watering.
• Position in full sun to partial shade with protection from strong winds. Morning sun with afternoon shade suits hot Australian climates.
• Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost and organic matter. Heavy clay soils need drainage improvement to prevent root rot.
• Feed with balanced fertiliser in early spring and again in summer. Add potassium-rich fertiliser during fruiting season for better fruit quality.
• Prune lightly after harvest in late spring to control size and shape. Remove dead wood, suckers, and crossing branches throughout the year.
• Mulch heavily around the root zone to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent collar rot.

• Plant in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil for best fruit production. Morning sun with afternoon protection works well in hot climates.
• Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
• Feed with balanced fertiliser in spring and summer, adding extra potassium during fruiting season. Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
• Prune after harvest to maintain shape and size. Remove suckers and crossing branches for better air circulation.

• Scale insects can attack leaves and stems, causing yellowing and sticky honeydew. Spray with horticultural oil or use beneficial predators like ladybirds.
• Fire blight can cause branch dieback and blackened leaves in humid conditions. Remove affected branches immediately and improve air circulation.
• Fruit fly can damage ripening fruit, causing maggots inside. Use fruit fly traps and harvest fruit slightly early to ripen indoors.
• Overwatering leads to root rot and yellowing leaves. Ensure good drainage and allow soil to dry between waterings.