Loquat, also known as the Japanese Plum (Eriobotrya japonica), is an attractive evergreen tree recognized for its large, glossy leaves and small, apricot-like fruit that ripens in the spring. The fruit is borne in clusters and offers a flavor profile that can range from sweet to slightly tart, making it a popular choice for home gardeners. Growing this subtropical tree from seed is a straightforward process, though the resulting tree may not produce fruit exactly like its parent due to genetic variation.
Preparing the Loquat Seed
Seed viability is highest when loquat seeds are planted immediately after being removed from the fruit. Each ripe fruit typically contains between one and six large, brown seeds, which should be firm and plump. After consumption, the seeds must be thoroughly cleaned to remove all residual fruit pulp and sticky membranes.
Rinsing the seeds under cool running water or in a sieve eliminates sugary flesh, which can harbor mold and fungus that inhibits germination. Loquat seeds are recalcitrant, meaning they quickly lose their ability to sprout if they are allowed to dry out. If immediate planting is not possible, keep the seeds moist by wrapping them in a damp paper towel or storing them in clean water until they can be sown.
Sowing the Seed for Germination
Sow the prepared seeds in a container that provides good drainage, such as a small pot or seedling tray. A high-quality, well-draining potting mix is suitable, though a soilless medium like coconut coir and perlite is often preferred for aeration. Heavy garden soil should be avoided, as it tends to compact and can suffocate the emerging sprout.
Planting depth is shallow, covering the seed with soil equal to its thickness. For a typical loquat seed, this means burying it about half an inch to one inch deep and positioning it horizontally. Place the container in a warm environment, ideally around 70°F (21°C), receiving bright, indirect light. The soil must be kept consistently moist but never saturated, and sprouts should emerge within two to six weeks.
Initial Care for Young Loquat Seedlings
Once the seedling emerges from the soil, consistent moisture remains important, though the soil should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. The young plant should continue to receive bright, indirect light, as harsh direct sunlight can scorch the tender new leaves. When the seedling develops several sets of true leaves and reaches a height of about six inches, it is ready to be moved into a larger pot.
If the loquat will be planted outdoors, it must undergo hardening off to acclimate it to external conditions like wind and direct sun. Begin this process seven to fourteen days before transplanting by placing the seedling outside in a sheltered, shady spot for an hour or two. Gradually increase the duration of outdoor exposure and intensify the amount of sunlight over the two-week period.
Hardening off allows the plant to develop sturdier stems and a thicker cuticle on its leaves, reducing the risk of transplant shock. The young loquat is ready for permanent outdoor planting once it is a couple of feet tall, can tolerate full sun, and the threat of freezing temperatures has passed. Loquats thrive in subtropical climates, and protection is necessary if temperatures are expected to consistently drop below 27°F (-3°C).