Litchi tree is a beautiful, flowering plant that is native to southern China. The litchi tree produces a small, red fruit that is popular in Asia and increasingly in the West. The litchi tree is a member of the soapberry family and is closely related to the Lychee.
Related plant:
Litchi Plant
About soil condition, litchi trees prefer well-drained, deep, loamy soils, but they are also known to be tolerant of a wide range of soils, including those that are sandy, clayey, or saline. The tree is not very tolerant of waterlogging. Litchi trees also do not tolerate long periods of drought very well.
Just like other plants, litchi trees need sunlight to grow. They prefer to grow in full sun, but can also tolerate partial sun. Litchi trees need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to produce fruit.
The temperature condition is perfect for a litchi tree. This tropical tree thrives in warm weather and needs a minimum temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit to produce fruit. The tree is also quite sensitive to cold weather and can be damaged by temperatures below freezing.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% to 70%. (from https://homeguides.sfgate.com/litchi-tree-humidity-level-55417.html) Litchi trees prefer a humid environment, with a humidity level of 50% to 70%. If the air is too dry, the leaves will begin to drop and the fruit will not develop properly. If the air is too humid, the leaves will develop brown spots and the fruit will be more susceptible to disease. The ideal temperature for this plant is between 68 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
Discussing fertilizer, usually the plant food we think of is for the above ground growth, the luscious leaves and the sweet smelling flowers. However, fertilizer is just as important, if not more important, for the development of a strong and healthy root system. The roots of a litchi tree will absorb nutrients from the soil and water to help the tree grow tall and strong. If the roots are not healthy, the tree will not be able to support the weight of the fruit.
Pruning is an important part of maintaining a healthy litchi tree. Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, as well as any branches that are rubbing against each other. Also, cut back any branches that are growing too close to the trunk or that are crossing over other branches.
Propagation is best done by softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken from the current season's growth. The cuttings should be 10-15cm long and taken from the tips of the branches. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-drained rooting media. Keep the cuttings moist and in a warm, humid environment until rooted. Once rooted, the plants can be transplanted into pots or the garden.
Usually, the plant growth rate is determined by the species, age, and growing conditions of the tree. The average growth rate of litchi trees is between 3 and 6 feet per year. Litchi trees can live up to 100 years and grow up to 50 feet tall. The fastest growth occurs during the first 10 years of a tree's life. Proper care, including regular watering, fertilization, and pest control, can help litchi trees reach their full potential.
Common problems for this kind of plant are aphids, mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with regular applications of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The litchi tree is also susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and anthracnose. These can be controlled with fungicidal sprays.
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Storage of Litchi Fruits at Room Temperature with Use of Leaf
Find Trees & Learn | University of Arizona Campus Arboretum
The declining profitability of litchi orchards in northern Thailand ...
