Slow Growing Loquat

I planted a Gold Nugget Loquat tree two years ago. It is growing at an extremely slow rate, much less than the dwarf naval orange tree next to it. The trunk remains very thin. I have to use strings and sticks to support and keep it upright. What is going on? Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Hardiness Zone: 9a

By xyang2004 from San Mateo, CA

Answers: Slow Growing Loquat

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By 07/05/2009

A month after planting, spread 1/4 lb (113 g) per tree of a young-tree fertilizer, such as 6-6-6 (6 % nitrogen 6% phosphate 6%potassium) with minor elements. Twenty to 30% of the nitrogen should come from organic sources (Table 3). Repeat this every 8 weeks for the first year. Then, gradually increase the amount of fertilizer to 0.5, 0.75, 1.0 lb etc., (227 g, 341 g, 454 g, etc.) as the trees grow. Four to 6 dry fertilizer applications per year may be made up to the third year. good luck.