Harvesting Loquat Trees

Choose Ripe Fruits: Select fruits that are fully colored and slightly soft to the touch. Ripe loquats will have a sweet aroma and may come off the tree easily with a gentle twist.

Harvesting Technique: Hold the fruit gently and give it a slight twist. Ripe loquats should detach easily from the stem. Avoid pulling forcefully, as this can damage the fruit or the tree.

Use Pruning Shears for Hard-to-Reach Fruit: For fruits higher up in the tree or those difficult to reach, use clean pruning shears to cut the stem carefully. Ensure the shears are sharp to make clean cuts without damaging the tree.

Inspect for Ripeness: Before harvesting, inspect a few fruits for ripeness to ensure you are picking at the right time. A taste test can confirm the sweetness and quality of the fruit.

Multiple Harvests: Loquats may not all ripen at the same time. Plan for multiple harvests to gather the fully ripe fruit while leaving the others to mature.

Handle with Care: Handle the harvested loquats with care to avoid bruising. Use a shallow container or basket to prevent fruits from piling up and becoming damaged.

Leave Some for Wildlife: Consider leaving some ripe fruit on the tree or on the ground for local wildlife. This not only supports the ecosystem but also helps reduce the risk of pests.

Post-Harvest Care: After harvesting, store loquats in a cool, dry place or refrigerate to maintain freshness. Use harvested fruit within a few days or consider preserving methods like freezing or making jams.

Prune After Harvest: Consider light pruning after the harvest season to shape the tree and remove any dead or unwanted branches. Pruning can promote healthy growth for the next season.

Enjoy Fresh or Processed: Loquats can be enjoyed fresh, added to salads, or used in various culinary creations. Explore recipes for jams, jellies, or desserts to make the most of your harvest.

Storage Considerations

Refrigeration: For short-term storage, place harvested loquats in the refrigerator. Store them in a perforated plastic bag to maintain humidity without excess moisture.

Avoid Washing Before Storage: Do not wash loquats before storing, as moisture can lead to mold growth. Wait to wash them just before consumption.

Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in the storage container or bag to prevent condensation. Excess moisture can lead to spoilage.

Separate Ripe and Unripe Fruits: If you have a mix of ripe and unripe loquats, store them separately. Ripe fruits emit ethylene gas, which can accelerate the ripening of others.

Use a Cool, Dark Place: For longer-term storage, consider storing loquats in a cool, dark place like a cellar or a cool pantry. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat.

Check for Ripeness Regularly: Regularly check stored loquats for ripeness. Remove any overripe or spoiled fruits promptly to prevent the spread of mold.

Preservation Methods: Consider preserving excess loquats through methods like freezing, canning, or making jams and jellies. These methods can extend the shelf life of the fruit.

Keep Them Dry: Ensure that the storage area remains dry. Excess moisture can lead to mold and decay.

Store in a Single Layer: When possible, store loquats in a single layer to prevent bruising and allow for better air circulation. If layering is necessary, use protective padding between layers.

Avoid Mixing with Strongly Aromatic Foods: Loquats can absorb odors from strongly aromatic foods. Store them away from items with strong smells to maintain their natural flavor.

Use a Ventilated Container: If storing in a container, choose one with ventilation holes or use a breathable produce storage bag. This helps maintain air circulation and prevents moisture buildup.

Consume Promptly: Loquats are best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume them promptly after harvest. If stored properly, they can remain in good condition for a few days to a week.