Kathryn’s plant of the week

This week I asked my co-worker Kathryn what her favourite plant was. She chose the Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba aka Maidenhair Tree) which is a deciduous conifer.

Interview with Kathryn

Me: Kathryn, why did you pick this as your favorite plant? What do you like about it?

Kathryn: The Ginkgo really speaks to me! It is absolutely gorgeous and can grow to become too grand and tall. It makes me feel calm and just creates a very peaceful atmosphere and environment. It is also important to note that this is an ancient tree and it is the oldest living tree species in the world dating back to before dinosaurs even existed! (66-245 million years ago)

Me: Wow! That is honestly incredible! Why would you recommend this to people to add to their gardens?

Kathryn: This is a great tree to plant on the West Coast as well as in cities. They are resistant to pollutants, fungicides, insects, disease, bacteria, droughts, and smog. They are also just such a unique tree that often gets overlooked when people are looking to plant a tree in their yard. They are also pretty easy to care for and like I said they are resistant. The leaves are beautiful and add great fall colour to a yard. They also come in many different sizes so you can pick the one that will work best for you

Me: Just like many trees there are many different varieties, do you have a favourite?

Kathryn: Yes, my favourite has to be the Golden Globe. It is one of the smallest varieties and its vibrant yellow reminds me of sunshine which never fails to make me smile!

How to care for your Ginkgo Tree

Planting:

• Choose a well-drained location with full to partial sun. Ginkgo trees are adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.

Watering:

• Ginkgo trees are drought-tolerant once established but require regular watering during the first year or two after planting to help the roots establish. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.

Pruning:

• Ginkgo trees have a natural pyramidal shape, so they generally don’t require much pruning. Prune for shape and remove any dead or damaged branches during the dormant season.

Fertilizing:

• Ginkgo trees typically do not require heavy fertilization. If your soil is deficient in nutrients, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Mulching:

• Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep the mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot.

Leaf Drop:

• Ginkgo trees are known for their distinctive fan-shaped leaves. In the fall, they turn a beautiful golden yellow and drop all their leaves within a short period. This is normal and not a cause for concern.

Holistic uses of the Ginkgo

The Ginkgo has many medicinal properties! The tree is native to China so I think it is important to address how some of the Chinese people would have used and still use the Ginkgo. The leaves were used to treat brain, circulatory problems, and respiratory conditions. Ginkgo nuts were used for cough, fever, diarrhea, toothaches, and even gonorrhea. It has also been used in treating blood disorders and memory issues. As well as the extract from ginkgo leaves is also promoted as a dietary supplement for many conditions, including anxiety, allergies, dementia, and eye problems.

What a fantastic plant with not only a beautiful aesthetic but also so many different uses!