Learn more about the Loquat roots and how it develops will help you make decisions about where to plant it so that it does not become an obstacle to the development of other trees or plants.
If you want to enjoy its sweet fruits, it is important that you know about the root system of this tree, because it has some particularities that influence its growth and adaptation to the environment.
General characteristics of loquat roots
There are a number of factors that make the root system of this fruit tree special:
Initial taproot
The loquat begins its life through a very robust main root which penetrates into the soil and plays a crucial role in anchoring itself to the ground and obtaining water from deeper layers.
fibrous root system
As the tree matures, that taproot It branches profusely and gives rise to a more fibrous and extended root system, which facilitates the absorption of water and nutrients from a larger area of soil.
Surface roots
Most of the roots of the loquat are superficial, they are not buried more than 60-80 centimeters from the surfaceThis is what makes this tree sensitive to drought, because it depends greatly on surface humidity.
Horizontal Extension
These secondary roots extend considerably horizontally, in order to take advantage of the nutrients and water that are available in the area near the trunk.
Root-stem ratio
There is a close relationship between root development and the tree's aerial growth. If the roots are strong and healthy, we will see vigorous growth of leaves and branches, and we will also enjoy fruits of good quality and size.
Are loquat roots invasive?
No, generally speaking this tree is not considered to have invasive roots. They do not have the capacity to cause damage to structures or other plants.
Precisely because the growth of its root system is quite superficial and horizontal, and most trees and plants develop their roots more deeply and vertically.
Furthermore, the root growth of this tree is relatively slow and is concentrated mainly in the area close to the trunk. Therefore, if there are no other plants too close, it does not pose any problem.
However, there are a couple of cases that we must take into account because in them the roots can cause some headaches:
- Very compact soils. In very dense soils, roots may spread more horizontally to find spaces to grow. This may lead to slight lifting of the pavement or cause minor damage to areas close to the trunk.
- Very large trees. If the loquat is very old, its root system can be very extensive and even emerge if the soil is shallow.
How to care for loquat?
You can plant a potted loquat or on the ground, but in both cases you must take into account the following considerations to achieve good root development and prevent this tree from competing with other nearby plants.
Choosing the right soil
This is a tree that adapts to a wide variety of soils, but the best growth and fruit production results occur in those that meet these conditions:
- Good drainage capacity.
- Soil with a silty or clayey texture, which retain moisture and provide good structure.
- pH between 6 and 8, between slightly acidic and neutral.
- Rich in organic matter.
Instead, it is advisable to avoid:
- Very compact soils that hinder root development.
- Saline soils that affect tree growth and reduce fruit production.
- Very acidic soils that limit the availability of certain nutrients that this tree needs.
Irrigation: frequency and conditions
The frequency of watering depends on factors such as the climate, the type of soil, the age of the tree or the time of year. But in any case it is recommended water regularly, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages.
It is preferable to do infrequent deep watering than superficial and frequent watering. Because this encourages the development of the taproot and not so much the superficial roots.
The best time of day to water is at dawn or dusk, because water evaporation is less and it penetrates deeper into the soil.
As for the irrigation method, the best is drip irrigation, which applies water precisely.
Balanced fertilization
Fertilization helps the growth of roots, stems, leaves and branches, as well as the proper formation of flowers and results in larger and higher quality fruits.
The loquat needs nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium which it can obtain through organic or mineral fertilizersThe former release nutrients more gradually and improve soil structure, as is the case with compost. While the latter are released more quickly, like industrial fertilizers.
Fertilization is carried out in spring and autumnAs for the quantity, it depends on the size of the tree and the type of soil, but you should not overuse it.
Weed control
Weeds compete with the loquat tree for access to water, nutrients and soil space, which can affect the development of its roots. To prevent this from becoming a problem, it is important to keep the area around the trunk free of weeds.
Manual removal and application of a mulch layer They can be of great help in these cases.
Protection against diseases and pests
Both insects and diseases can affect the roots of the tree. Hence the importance of applying preventive measures such as:
- Regular inspection for signs of disease or infestation.
- Pruning diseased roots.
- Application of phytosanitary treatments as necessary.
The roots of the loquat are not invasive and, if we ensure that it develops a strong root system, we will have a tree for many years.