Loquats (Eriobotrya) are trees or shrubs belonging to the pome fruit family that can grow up to 12 meters high in their East Asian homeland - the trees come from China, Japan and Korea. They are cultivated not only because of their beautiful, evergreen foliage, but above all because of their tasty fruits - which, however, rarely grow and ripen directly on the tree in our latitudes, even if some tree nurseries claim this. Our plants are not hardy.
Is the loquat hardy?
Loquats (Eriobotrya) are not hardy in our latitudes, but they can tolerate temperatures slightly below zero. In mild temperatures of up to minus 5 degrees Celsius, the plant can overwinter outdoors if it is well protected. An insulating base and a corner protected from wind and weather are recommended.
Do not plant loquats in the garden
Basically, loquats are quite robust plants that can tolerate sub-zero temperatures in the low-digit range. For this reason, the plants can easily remain outdoors from April to November - of course with appropriate protection if there is a risk of night frosts. Even a mild winter spent in the garden or on the balcony usually does not harm the tree. However, if a harsh winter is imminent, the loquat should be brought to safety as quickly as possible - because it is unlikely to survive temperatures below five to eight degrees Celsius.
Overwintering loquats outdoors
For this reason, planting in the garden is not recommended, as a single harsh winter can destroy the lovingly cared for and cared for tree in no time. However, at mild temperatures down to around minus five degrees Celsius, you can also overwinter the loquat outside, provided the plant is appropriately protected. To do this you should
- place the loquat in a corner protected from wind and weather
- if possible on a warm house wall
- the location should also be bright
- The pot is placed on an insulating surface, such as Styrofoam or wood
- wrap the pot and trunk with an insulating material,
- which should, however, allow air exchange
- Non-woven mats (€49.00 at Amazon) or raffia mats are ideal
- also don't forget to water the tree regularly.
However, without an additional heat source such as a heater, insulating material is useless at temperatures below zero.
Overwintering loquats in the house/greenhouse
As soon as it gets colder, you can overwinter the loquat under cold house conditions in the house or greenhouse. The tree needs a bright and frost-free location with a maximum temperature of 12 °C - for example in the (little heated) bedroom or in the stairwell, as long as it is not too drafty there. If the tree is kept cold over the winter, it can also be kept indoors all year round.
Tip
If your loquat is already too big or you don't have a suitable place to overwinter, just ask your trusted gardener - they often have a suitable corner available in the greenhouse that you can rent for a fee.
