Growing Guide: Sri Chompoo Longan

Plant Type	Perennial Fruit Tree
Harvest Season	Late Spring to Early Summer
Mature Size	20-30 feet feet tall, 20-25 feet wide
Soil & Moisture	Well-draining, sandy loam soil; moderate to high watering needs
Light Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Rate	Slow to Moderate
Self-fertile	Yes
Zone Hardiness	Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection until well-established; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation	Air-layered and capable of producing fruit from within this growing season to up to 2 years.

Climate: Shri Chompoo Lychees thrive in tropical and subtropical climates and are best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-11. The tree prefers warm temperatures and high humidity, with consistent rainfall or irrigation. In slightly cooler regions, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors or into a greenhouse during colder months.
Soil: Prefers well-draining, sandy loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0). The tree benefits from soil enriched with organic matter, such as compost, but excellent drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.

Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Shri Chompoo Lychees perform best in full sun but can tolerate some partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by tilling and adding compost or organic matter to enhance fertility and drainage.
Planting Time: Plant in the spring after the last frost, when the soil has warmed up. If planting in containers, ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate the tree’s growth and has adequate drainage.
Spacing: Space trees 20-25 feet apart to allow adequate room for growth and air circulation.

Consistent Moisture: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Shri Chompoo Lychees have moderate to high water needs, especially during the growing season and fruiting period. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, particularly during hot weather.
Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Full Sun to Partial Shade: Ensure the tree receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. In extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and fruiting. Supplement with additional nutrients such as potassium and magnesium, which are important for fruit development. Fertilize every 6-8 weeks during the growing season for best results.

Routine Pruning: Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree. Regular pruning helps to maintain a manageable size and promotes better air circulation and light penetration.
Maintenance: Shri Chompoo Lychees are relatively low-maintenance once established. Keep the area around the tree clear of weeds and debris to prevent pests and diseases.

Common Pests: Monitor for pests such as aphids, scale, and fruit borers. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
Diseases: Shri Chompoo Lychees are relatively disease-resistant, but it’s important to watch for signs of root rot and leaf spot. Ensure proper spacing, good air circulation, and avoid overwatering to reduce disease risk.

When to Harvest: Shri Chompoo Lychees typically ripen from late spring to early summer. The fruit is ready to pick when it reaches full size, the skin turns a vibrant pinkish-red, and the fruit becomes slightly soft to the touch.
How to Harvest: Gently cut or twist the fruit clusters from the tree. Enjoy the fruit fresh, or store it for a short period in a cool place. Lychees can also be dried for longer storage.