Actually, the ginkgo or fan leaf tree (Ginkgo biloba) is a robust and uncomplicated fellow, otherwise it probably would not have survived the last 250 million years. However, sometimes it still needs a little more attention, for example when it leaves its leaves hanging.
Why does the ginkgo let its leaves droop?
If a ginkgo tree droops its leaves, it may be due to lack of water, too little light, unfavorable soil conditions or frost damage. Regular watering, sufficient light supply, repotting or waiting after frost damage can help.
Why does the ginkgo droop its leaves?
There are numerous reasons why ginkgo leaves droop. This symptom often occurs in specimens cultivated in a pot or as a bonsai, which either receivetoo little waterand/ortoo little light. Basically, a small ginkgo tree can be kept well in a planter, provided
- this holds at least 50 liters of soil
- Contains nutrient-rich, loose soil (no Seramis or similar)
- watering regularly and thoroughly
- Excess irrigation water is removed immediately
You should also repot a potted ginkgo into fresh substrate and, if necessary, a larger pot at least every two years.
What can you do if the ginkgo leaves its leaves drooping?
Furthermore, even ginkgos planted in the garden will leave their leaves hanging if they have suffered frost and thusfrost damage after they sprout in the spring. Although ginkgo is very hardy, the leaves can still freeze due to late frost. In this case, all you can do is wait. As a rule, the tree will sprout again at a later date.
How to prevent ginkgo from drooping its leaves?
If you want to prevent the ginkgo from drooping its leaves, plant and care for it properly. Specimens kept in pots in particular mustbe supplied regularly with water and fertilizer, but you must not let the substratedry out between two watering dates. The soil should only be superficially dry. Sufficient sunlight and, in winter, protection from both frost and warm heating air are also essential - it is best to overwinter potted ginkgo in a cool place so that it does not sprout at an inopportune time. In this case, water very sparingly.
Should you prune ginkgo leaves when they are drooping?
If possible, do not cut off the hanging ginkgo leaves, even after frost! Only after a new shoot will you see which leaves and shoots have actually died and therefore need to be removed. Otherwise, it is usually enough to eliminate thecauses, then the leaves will straighten up again on their own.
Tip
Protect ginkgo from heat
By the way, a lack of water can not only occur due to watering too infrequently or too little water, but also when it is too hot. Ginkgo trees grown in pots in particular should be protected from strong sunlight and heat. This can heat up the soil in the pot and thus the root ball, which in turn negatively affects the water supply.