GINKGO BILOBA

Planting Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba, often known as the Maidenhair Tree, is a unique and long-lived deciduous tree admired for its fan-shaped leaves and striking golden-yellow autumn colour. It is highly resilient and makes an excellent feature tree for gardens and landscapes.

Choosing the right position

• Prefers a full sun position for best growth and autumn colour
• Tolerates light shade but may grow more slowly
• Suitable for both urban and rural settings due to high pollution tolerance
• Best planted where it has space to grow into its mature shape
• Ideal as a specimen tree in lawns or large borders

Soil requirements

• Adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils
• Prefers well-drained soil but tolerates occasional wet conditions
• Grows well in neutral to slightly acidic soils
• Avoid extremely waterlogged or compacted ground
• Improve poor soils with organic matter before planting

How to plant

• Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth
• Loosen the soil at the base and sides of the hole
• Position the tree so the root collar sits level with the soil surface
• Backfill with soil, firm gently, and water thoroughly
• Stake young trees to support them in exposed areas
• Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture

Planting in containers (young trees only)

• Choose a large, deep container with drainage holes
• Use a free-draining compost mix
• Ensure the tree is stable and well-supported
• Water regularly, as containers dry out more quickly
• Repot as the tree grows to prevent root restriction

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

Ginkgo biloba is known for being low maintenance once established, with excellent tolerance to a range of conditions.

Watering

• Water regularly during the first few years to establish roots
• Once established, it is drought tolerant
• Water during prolonged dry periods, particularly in summer
• Container-grown trees require more frequent watering
• Avoid overwatering, especially in poorly drained soil

Feeding

• Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support growth
• Mulching annually with compost or well-rotted manure improves soil health
• Feeding is usually minimal once the tree is established
• Avoid excessive fertiliser, which can lead to weak growth

Pruning

• Requires minimal pruning due to its naturally attractive shape
• Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches when necessary
• Best pruned in late winter or early spring while dormant
• Avoid heavy pruning, as the tree responds best to light maintenance
• Maintain a clear central leader for strong structure

Mulching

• Apply organic mulch in spring to conserve moisture
• Helps regulate soil temperature and suppress weeds
• Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot

Seasonal Care and Common Issues

Ginkgo biloba is an exceptionally hardy and resilient tree, making it suitable for a wide range of climates and conditions.

Seasonal interest

• Fresh green leaves emerge in spring
• Dense foliage provides shade in summer
• Leaves turn brilliant golden-yellow in autumn before falling
• Bare branches in winter reveal an attractive structure

Winter care

• Fully hardy and tolerant of cold temperatures
• Young trees may benefit from protection against strong winds
• Ensure newly planted trees are well-staked to prevent movement
• Mulching in autumn can help protect roots in colder areas

Common issues

• Generally pest and disease resistant
• Rarely affected by common garden pests
• Leaf scorch may occur in very dry or exposed conditions
• Poor growth may result from compacted or poorly drained soil
• Overwatering can lead to root problems in heavy soils

Ginkgo biloba is a remarkable and ancient tree that offers beauty, resilience, and longevity. Its distinctive foliage and vibrant autumn colour make it a standout feature in any garden. With minimal care once established, it is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and low-maintenance tree that will thrive for many years.