How to Grow a Ginkgo Tree in the Landscape

The Ginkgo biloba tree is one of the most fascinating and beautiful trees alive today. It is considered a "living fossil". Here is some information on this unusual tree and how to grow a Ginkgo in the landscape.

Instructions

1. ABOUT THE GINKGO
   The Ginkgo Biloba is ancient and unique. It has no living relatives and the only stands of natural Ginkgos exist in China -- even these are suspected to have been planted around 1000 years ago rather than being entirely natural. These are exceptionally long-lived trees with one tree reportedly 3000 years old. The Ginkgo was abundant during the ancient times of the dinosaur and, like the cycad, is one of the few remaining 'living fossils' alive and growing today. This tree has an unusual soft yellow-green leaf that resembles the fan-shaped leaves of a Maidenhair Fern rather than leaves of any other tree. It is tolerant to drought, wind, frost, most pests and urban pollution.

2. HOW TO USE THE GINKGO
   Grow the Ginkgo where you can use a large, deciduous (drops foliage in the winter) tree that will grow from 60' to 120' tall. Some really old trees are even taller. This tree will put down deep roots which accounts for its solidity, yet it will survive even in a more limited area.

3. CARE FOR THE GINKGO
   The Ginkgo tree is easily grown. It prefers a slightly acidic soil and good drainage. It will grow in most temperate climates and is very undemanding in its care.

4. DESIGN WITH THE GINKGO
   The Ginkgo has a light, feathery look to its leaves that give it a unique appearance. Try to plant only male trees as the female trees have flowers that can be offensive in smell. In the autumn the foliage turns a brilliant yellow and is highly decorative. Use the Ginkgo as a large shade tree or ornamental in the landscape. It is especially effective in woodland, Asian or contemporary styled gardens.

5. OTHER USES OF GINKGO
   Ginkgo seeds are sometimes used in traditional Asian recipes. Preparations from the leaves are said to increase blood flow and seem to help protect from free radical damage. The Ginkgo is believed to help sharpen memory though results from dementia testing have not been conclusive. Some people can have side effects from taking ginkgo medicinally.

6. With its age and history, beauty and unique looking leaves, medicinal properties and ease of growth, the Ginkgo is an exceptional tree to use in the garden. For more information about the Ginkgo tree and how to grow it in the landscape, please check some of the additional links listed below under Resources.

Resources

• Landscape design and gardening information and ideas
• eHow Spring Guide
• The Ginkgo and medical applications
• The Ginkgo Pages