Ginkgo

Location

Plant gingkos in full sun for best growth and golden fall color, with a minimum of six hours of direct sun. Choose a site with room for the cultivar’s mature size.

Planting & Soil

Plant in fall through early spring. Ginkgos adapt to many soil types but establish best in well-drained soil. Dig a hole twice as wide and one and a half as deep as the root ball. Mix ⅓ pine bark fines, ⅓ mushroom compost, and ⅓ native soil. Set the root flare 2-3 inches above the surrounding soil level and exposed. Mulch away from the trunk if applying.

Watering

Water deeply after planting. For spring planting, water 2-3 times weekly for the first three weeks. For fall or winter planting, water thoroughly after planting and once a week until spring bud break. Water generally 1–2 times weekly through the growing season; increase during hot, dry weather and adjust for rain and soil moisture. Let the upper soil dry between waterings; established trees are relatively drought-tolerant.

Fertilizing

Fertilizer is usually unnecessary in healthy landscape soil. If a soil test or poor growth indicates a need, apply a modest slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Pruning

Prune in late winter while dormant to remove damaged or crossing branches and establish good structure; avoid topping.

Care needs vary with weather, soil drainage, and planting location.