Can a loquat tree survive a Kentucky winter planted outside?
Sue Asked
Can a loquat tree survive a Kentucky winter planted outside?
The Gardener’s Answer
Loquat trees (Eriobotrya japonica), also commonly referred to as a Japanese plum, are native to China. They are grown commercially in the Mediterranean and subtropical regions of the world. Unfortunately, this does not include Kentucky.
The tree can survive temperatures as low as 10 degrees F, but the flowers will not survive below 25 degrees F. These fruit-bearing trees are also not happy when temperatures rise above 95 degrees F. So for those of us living and gardening in Kentucky, we will have to rely on grocery stores and fruit markets for this fruit.
We do live in a climate that is favorable for many other fruit trees. This probably is not the answer you were hoping for, but maybe you can choose another fruit tree that is better suited for our area.
