Medlars often lose leaves from:
- missing fine roots
- Drought stress
- Root damage
also read
- Why the red robin loquat is losing its leaves
- Why the loquat gets brown leaves
- The loquat is losing leaves - first aid and prevention
Missing fine roots
Medlars form a flat root system with numerous fiber roots. These fine roots are used to absorb nutrients. If you have transplanted the shrub to a new location, fine roots can be damaged. Incorrect care measures mean that the common loquat does not develop enough fiber roots. It can no longer supply its leaves with sufficient nutrients.
Water the plant penetrating and protect the foliage with one Garden fleece from excessive sun exposure. Even in partially shaded locations, the fleece minimizes the evaporation of water. Fertilizing with algae extract supports the growth of the roots.
Drought stress
This phenomenon occurs in spring when continuous frosts have interrupted the water supply in winter. During the cold season, the plant lost a lot of liquid due to strong sunlight, which it could not reabsorb in the frozen ground. The deficit leads to a stress response and the plant drops its leaves. Drought stress also occurs in summer when long periods of heat reduce water reserves.
Water the shrub extensively before the onset of winter. A layer of insulation on the floor reduces the risk of the floor completely freezing. Protect the foliage with a garden fleece so that the sun does not shine directly on the leaves. Watering is necessary in summer when the upper soil layer has dried. Give the common loquat plenty of water.
Root damage
Pests in the soil that feed on the fine roots impair the supply of water and nutrients. Black weevils are common pests on medlars. They lay their eggs on the ground near the trunk so that the larvae can crawl into the substrate. They feed on the fiber roots and do a lot of damage. If the conditions in the substrate are too humid, fungi can spread to the roots. They rot and can no longer take care of the plant.
A special gel with roundworms, which you add to the irrigation water, helps against the larvae of the black weevil. When choosing a location, make sure that the substrate is well drained to prevent fungal spore infestation.
