Pollination Info for Ginkgo Trees (Ginkgo biloba)

Ginkgo trees are dioecious, meaning they have separate male and female trees. Male trees produce pollen in small clusters of flowers called catkins, while female trees produce ovules in the form of fleshy cones.

Pollination in ginkgo trees occurs through the transfer of pollen from male to female trees by wind. Pollen produced by male trees is lightweight and can travel over long distances, making it easy to pollinate nearby female trees. However, ginkgo trees are slow to reach reproductive maturity, with most trees not producing pollen until they are around 20 years old.

Once pollinated, the ovules of the female tree develop into fruits that contain a single seed. The fruit is edible and has been used in traditional medicine, but it produces an unpleasant odor that some people find objectionable.

Ginkgo trees are considered important landscape trees due to their unique fan-shaped leaves and their hardiness in a variety of climatic conditions. Understanding their pollination behavior can help promote successful reproduction and maintenance of these beautiful trees.

Ginkgo Trees (Ginkgo biloba) FAQ

What are Ginkgo Trees?

Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as Ginkgo or Maidenhair tree, is a deciduous tree native to China that can reach up to 100 feet tall and 30 feet wide.

Are Ginkgo Trees easy to care for?

Yes, Ginkgo Trees are low-maintenance. They don't require much watering or fertilizer and are pest-resistant.

When should I plant Ginkgo Trees?

Ginkgo Trees can be planted in spring or fall. It's important to plant them in well-draining soil and in an area that gets full sun to partial shade.

What is the best way to water Ginkgo Trees?

Ginkgo Trees don't require much water once established. It's important to water them deeply and infrequently rather than shallowly and frequently.

Do Ginkgo Trees have any uses?

Ginkgo Trees have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. The leaves and seeds contain compounds that are believed to have medicinal properties.

Do Ginkgo Trees produce fruit?

Female Ginkgo Trees produce a fruit-like seed that smells unpleasant when it falls to the ground. For this reason, male Ginkgo Trees are preferred for landscaping purposes.

How do I prune Ginkgo Trees?

Ginkgo Trees do not require much pruning, but if needed, they should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.

Can Ginkgo Trees grow in pots?

Yes, Ginkgo Trees can be grown in pots, but they need to be planted in a pot that is at least two sizes larger than the current root ball of the tree. The pot should also have good drainage.

How long do Ginkgo Trees live?

Ginkgo Trees can live for hundreds of years.

Do Ginkgo Trees have any environmental benefits?

Yes, Ginkgo Trees are known for their air-cleaning properties and are often planted in urban areas to help improve air quality.

Planting & Care for Ginkgo Trees (Ginkgo biloba)

Planting

• Choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
• Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of the tree.
• Remove the tree from its container and loosen any tangled roots.
• Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, pressing firmly to eliminate any air pockets.
• Water thoroughly after planting.

Care

• Water the tree deeply once a week during the first growing season. After that, water during periods of drought.
• Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged wood and shape the tree as desired.
• Protect young trees from deer until they are large enough to withstand browsing.
• Watch for pests and diseases, such as Japanese beetles and verticillium wilt, and treat as needed.