How to Grow Loquat

Updated June 2026

A warm-season fruit for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

Loquat is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Loquat in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the loquat page for exact timing.

Varieties

Bradenton, Florida-selected sweet variety (Florida nurseries)
Gold Nugget, Large, sweet, orange-fleshed (nurseries)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 13.1 ft between plants.
Sowing: sow about 8 in deep.
Water: roughly 1.6 gal per plant every 4 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Birds. In humid regions, Fire blight can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Loquat is usually ready to harvest within roughly 36 months once established. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant loquat where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

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