Ginkgo
Ginkgo biloba · Ginkgoaceae
📷 EecherplazGinkgo06.jpg: Cayambe derivative work: Ginkgotree (talk) · CC BY-SA 3.0
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around ginkgo and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Ginkgo biloba
- Family
- Ginkgoaceae
- Type
- Deciduous tree
- Foliage
- Deciduous, golden yellow in autumn
- Mature height
- 15 meters
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-20 to -25 °C)
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Origin
- China
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability high.
Expert tips
The key tip
Ginkgo demands patience (very slow growth for the first 10 years) and deep, well-drained soil. Water during the first two years if there are summer dry spells.
The common mistake
Expecting rapid growth or moving it often: it hates disturbance and will take years to recover.
The pro's trick
Plant young (3-5 years old): a small specimen will bounce back better than a 15-year-old tree that's been moved around too much.
Care
Exposure
The Ginkgo prefers full sun exposure for optimal development and beautiful autumn coloring. It tolerates partial shade but will be less vigorous. Plant it in a well-open location, protected from strong winds that could damage its branches.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year after planting to encourage root establishment. Once established, the Ginkgo needs moderate watering and tolerates drought periods well. In summer, increase watering slightly during heat waves.
Soil
The Ginkgo is undemanding and adapts to most soils. It prefers well-draining, fertile soil but also tolerates compacted, polluted, or chalky soils. Avoid soils that are permanently waterlogged.
Pruning and structure
Pruning is not necessary under normal conditions. The Ginkgo naturally develops a beautiful conical or oval shape. Remove only dead, diseased, or poorly oriented branches in late winter. Light formative pruning is possible in the first years.
Fertilizer
Fertilizer is generally not essential for established mature trees. At planting time, incorporate compost or potting soil to enrich the soil. If growth is weak, a balanced fertilizer in spring can be beneficial.
Health and pests
The Ginkgo is remarkably resistant to diseases and pests. No major problems really affect it. It may occasionally be attacked by aphids or mites, but this remains minor with no serious consequences.
Did you know?
The Ginkgo biloba is a true living fossil: its species has existed for over 200 million years and survived the extinction of the dinosaurs. The tree that survived the atomic explosion in Hiroshima in 1945, located 160 meters from the hypocenter, continues to grow and flower, a symbol of resilience and hope. Its distinctive fan-shaped leaves have inspired artistic patterns throughout the centuries, particularly in Asia.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.