Keywords: grow longan from air layering, longan tree care, longan fertilizing tips, organic fertilizer for longan, NPK for longan trees

Growing longan (Dimocarpus longan) from air layering is one of the easiest propagation methods. In just two months, the air-layered shoot will be ready to transplant into the ground. But while planting may be simple, successful care is the real challenge—especially if you want your tree to thrive and eventually bear fruit.

In this blog post, we share a proven method based on our own farm experience. Follow these steps to avoid mistakes, protect your tree in its early stage, and promote strong growth.

🌱 Step 1: Transplanting the Longan Tree

After removing the air-layered longan from the mother tree:

• Do not use chemical fertilizers immediately.

• Water daily to help it adjust to the soil.

• Monitor for insects and apply organic pest control as needed.

Why avoid fertilizer at this stage? From experience, early fertilization can cause leaf drop and even kill the plant. It’s best to let the tree establish first.

🍃 Step 2: First Sprout—Start Foliar Feeding

Once you notice new sprouts, it’s time to begin light foliar care:

• Use a foliar spray with amino acids, calcium-boron, and NPK 30-10-10.

• Follow the dosage instructions on the bottle or fertilizer bag.

This supports healthy leaf development and improves the tree’s ability to photosynthesize effectively.

🌿 Step 3: Ground Application When Sprout Matures

As the sprout matures and begins to harden:

• You can start soil fertilization, either chemical or organic.

• On our farm, we use:

  • Raw chicken manure (aged and not too fresh)

  • Followed by diluted photosynthetic bacteria (PSB)

This method is more affordable than compost and provides good microbial and nutrient balance.

If you choose chemical fertilizer:

• Use NPK 16-16-16

• Apply 2 tablespoons around the outer edge of the canopy

• Water after application to help the nutrients soak in

💡 Pro Tip: Feed at the Canopy Edge

For young longan trees, always water and fertilize at the edge of the canopy, not near the trunk. This encourages the roots to expand outward, forming a stronger base and encouraging multiple branches.

❗ Note: These tips apply specifically to baby longan trees and not mature trees.

✅ Summary

• Use air layering to propagate longan easily

• Avoid fertilizers at transplant stage—just water daily

• Start foliar feed only after new growth appears

• Begin soil fertilization only after leaves mature

• Focus watering and fertilizing at the canopy edge

📌 Final Thoughts

Longan trees require patience and timing. Early mistakes—like using too much fertilizer—can lead to failure. But if you follow these simple steps, your longan tree will grow stronger and eventually reward you with fruit.