I HAVE A LARGE LOQUAT TREE (7'X6') 15g pot just plant 9 days ago i dug the hole 2x as deep & 3x as wide used 70x30 sandy soil, compost back filled tamped doown so there were no air pockets it is planted 1-2" above ground & mulched i also applied micorrhizea to the base on the roots. we have our fair share of rain the past few days but i also water it daily it is draining all of the shoots are starting to lay flat some curling nor alot of color chg yet but some yellow leaves. what do i do???

Answer #2 · Brent Wilson's Answer · I agree with John. Loquat trees are large-leaved and these will often shock a little and drop some foliage after planting.)

Answer #1 · John Heider's Answer · Hi Theresa-It sounds as though you took good care in planting your loquat tree. It is not unusual for a tree to go into some shock after planting. Root disturbance, small climate changes, and watering can shock a plant somewhat. Although your soil may be well draining it sounds as though it could be getting to much water as you said you were watering every day along with a fair amount of rain recently. Too much water can not only cause root rot over a period of time, but can cause your new foliage and stems to look limp along with yellowing of leaves.

Newly planted trees need to be kept moist not wet. Proper watering after planting is especially critical in the first year; over watering is just as injurious as under watering. Soil type and amount of rainfall will determine the frequency and amount of water needed. Water thoroughly at planting and again every three or four days for the first month or so. Afterwards, lengthen the interval between waterings over the next several months until the tree is well established. Once the loquat is established it will require very little water.

For now I would hold back on the watering and let the soil dry to a moist, not wet, condition before watering again.

John)