Kohala Longan tree – Air Layered

Kohala Longan tree – Air Layered

Okay, you’re interested in the “Kohala” Longan tree, specifically an air-layered one, in Florida. Here’s what you should know:

1. What is “Kohala” Longan?

• “Kohala” is a popular and highly-regarded Longan (Dimocarpus longan) cultivar, known for its consistent production of high-quality, large, sweet fruits with small seeds.
• It’s the most widely planted commercial variety in Florida.
• It’s a mid-season variety, with fruit typically ripening from late July through September in Florida. 

2. Benefits of Air-Layered Trees:

• Faster fruiting: Air-layered trees often fruit much sooner than seedlings, potentially within 1-2 years after planting.
• Clonal reproduction: Air layering ensures the new tree has the same desirable traits as the parent tree. 

3. Growing “Kohala” Longan (Air-Layered) in Florida:

• Climate: Longans thrive in Florida’s warm, subtropical climate (zones 10-11).
• Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth and fruit production.
• Soil: Plant in well-drained, sandy loam soil, enriching with organic matter.
• Watering: Water regularly, especially during establishment and dry periods.
• Cold Hardiness: Young trees need frost protection. Mature trees can tolerate brief temperatures down to around 22°F.
• Pruning: Prune annually to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and control height. 

In Summary:

An air-layered “Kohala” Longan tree is an excellent choice for Florida, especially if you want to enjoy homegrown longan fruit sooner rather than later.