Irrigation promotes bud burst – For best fruit quality and productivity, water the Longan tree often beginning at the earliest indication of blossoming. Although tolerant of arid environments, this fruit tree requires frequent watering throughout the blossoming period.
The tree cannot endure circumstances that are extremely moist. An excess of water will cause root rot. During the rainy season, irrigation should be reduced. Longans may endure leaf dryness and browning over the winter. The primary flowering time for longans is between February/March and April, with harvest happening between June, July, and August.
However, some varieties bloom beyond of season, delaying fruit harvest by three to six months. For optimal harvest time, fertilize at least twice each month to encourage bud break. The tree should also be irrigated to ensure it receives enough water and nutrients.
How long does it take for longan to develop from seed?
Production (Crop Yields) – It may take up to six years for seedling trees to yield fruit, but air-layered trees may bear fruit two to three years after planting. In general, longan trees yield fruit irregularly (i.e., not every year), and some years produce little or no fruit. Individual mature trees may produce 50 to over 500 pounds of fruit (23–227 kg).
How long does it take longan to mature?
After planting, seedling trees might take up to six years to yield fruit, but air-layered trees can give fruit within two to three years.
How is a longan tree planted?
Longans are subtropical trees that are well-adapted to tropical regions. They flourish in well-drained, sandy soil. For optimal development and fruit production, longan trees should be generally placed in full sun. Choose a location away from other trees, buildings, and powerlines, as longan trees may grow to be quite huge.
- After planting, regularly irrigate for plant establishment.
- Once trees begin yielding (3 to 4 years after planting), they should only be watered routinely during the spring and summer, when they are blooming and producing fruit.
- Few diseases affect longan trees, although the lychee webworm and many scale insects are frequent pests.
Contact your local Extension office for updated tips on pest control. In August, fruit is ready for harvesting. However, the sweetness of the pulp is the best sign of maturity. After being taken from the tree, fruit will no longer ripen. Fruit should be chilled as soon as possible after harvesting.
