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Ginkgo biloba tree is a plant that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. The leaves of the plant are used to make an extract that is taken orally to treat a variety of conditions. Some of the conditions that ginkgo biloba has been traditionally used to treat include memory loss, anxiety, and depression. There is some scientific evidence to support the use of ginkgo biloba for these conditions, but more research is needed.

Popular name

• Ginkgo tree
  
• Maidenhair tree
  
• Japanese apricot
  
• Ginkgo biloba
  
• Kew tree

Basic info

• Ginkgo biloba is a deciduous tree that is native to China.
  
• It is the only living species of its family and genus.
  
• Ginkgo biloba is considered to be a living fossil as it is the last surviving member of a once-flourishing group of species.
  
• The tree is popularly known as the maidenhair tree due to the resemblance of its leaves to maidenhair ferns.
  
• Ginkgo biloba trees can grow to a height of up to 40 meters.
  
• The tree has a lifespan of up to 1,000 years.
  
• The tree is dioecious, meaning that there are separate male and female trees.
  
• The tree produces small, yellow, fleshy fruits which are edible but not very tasty.
  
• The leaves of the tree are used in traditional Chinese medicine.
  
• Ginkgo biloba trees are planted as ornamental trees in parks and gardens.

Growing Steps

1. For ginkgo biloba tree, first step is to choose a proper location. It should be in full sun or partial shade.
   
2. The second step is to prepare the soil. It should be well-drained and fertile.
   
3. The third step is to plant the tree. It is best to plant it in the spring.
   
4. The fourth step is to water the tree regularly.
   
5. The fifth step is to fertilize the tree.
   
6. The sixth step is to prune the tree.
   
7. The seventh step is to protect the tree from pests and diseases.
   
8. The eighth step is to harvest the fruits.
   
9. The ninth step is to dry the fruits.
   
10. The tenth step is to store the dried fruits.

Related plant:
Ginkgo Tree

The Soil

About soil condition, it should be deep, rich in organic matter, and well-drained. Ginkgo biloba trees are relatively tolerant to urban conditions and can even thrive in poor soils, but they will not reach their potential size if the soil is of poor quality.

About light

Like the other trees, the Ginkgo biloba tree needs sunlight to grow. This tree is especially particular about the amount of sunlight it needs, though, and it will not do well if it does not get enough. The best place to grow a Ginkgo biloba tree is in an area that gets full sun for most of the day.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition is ideal for the growth of ginkgo biloba trees. They are able to withstand temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius and as high as 30 degrees Celsius. The trees are also tolerant to a wide range of soil pH levels, making them adaptable to different growing conditions.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is soil that is moist, but not soggy. If the soil is too dry, the leaves will begin to brown and the plant will become dormant. If the soil is too wet, the roots will rot.

The Fertilizer

Mentioning fertilizer, this plant does not need too much. In fact, too much fertilizer will produce a lot of lush leaves but few or no fruits. Fertilize sparingly in early spring. Also, be careful not to damage the roots when cultivating around the plant or when transplanting.

About light

Pruning a ginkgo biloba tree is important to maintain its shape and size. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Also, remove any suckers that are growing from the roots or base of the tree.

About Propagating

Propagation Ginkgo biloba trees can be grown from seed, but it is a slow process. It is better to propagate the tree from cuttings, which will root readily. Take cuttings from young trees in late summer or early fall. Cuttings should be about 6 inches long and should be taken from stems that are not too woody. Stick the cuttings into a pot of moistened sand or perlite and keep them in a warm, shady place. The cuttings should root within a few weeks. Once they have rooted, transplant them into individual pots filled with a good potting soil.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is considered to be between 12 and 24 inches per year. Some ginkgo growers have seen growth rates of up to 36 inches in a single year, but these are not typical. Ginkgo trees are not known to branch out much, so their growth is mostly tall and straight.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant owners are related to the size and shape of the tree. Many people want their tree to be taller, while others find the leaves too big and droopy. The tree can also be susceptible to disease and pests, which can cause problems for both the tree and the owner.

List to Know

• If you live in an area with cold winters, it's best to plant your ginkgo biloba tree in the spring.
  
• Choose a sunny spot in your yard for planting.
  
• Ginkgo biloba trees need well-drained soil.
  
• Amend your soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.
  
• Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the tree's root ball.
  
• Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil.
  
• Water the tree deeply after planting.
  
• Fertilize your ginkgo biloba tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
  
• Prune your tree annually to shape it and remove any dead or damaged branches.
  
• Your tree will need little to no supplemental irrigation once it is established.

Substitution

• Ginkgo tree
  
• Ginseng
  
• Magnolia tree
  
• Cypress tree
  
• Willow tree
  
• Birch tree
  
• Maple tree
  
• Poplar tree
  
• Elm tree
  
• Alder tree

Source:
Ginkgo | Arnold Arboretum
Ginkgo | University of Redlands
Ginkgo Biloba - Health Encyclopedia - University of Rochester