Troubleshooting
Li Jujube problems — and how to fix them
Li Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba 'Li') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Root suckering
Vigorous suckers emerge around the trunk and along roots, especially on grafted trees. Remove them promptly to stop a thicket forming and to keep the named cultivar dominant.
Poor ripening in cool summers
Without sustained summer heat the fruit fails to sweeten and ripen. In marginal climates plant in the hottest, most sheltered spot available.
Spines on young wood
Vigorous shoots carry sharp thorns. Wear gloves when pruning and site away from paths and play areas.
Light crops grown alone
Though partially self-fertile, yields improve markedly with a second cultivar such as 'Lang' nearby for cross-pollination.
Prevent li jujube problems before they start
Most li jujube issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for li jujube in general rather than its problems? Read the full li jujube care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Li Jujube problems — FAQ
Why is my li jujube root suckering?
Vigorous suckers emerge around the trunk and along roots, especially on grafted trees. Remove them promptly to stop a thicket forming and to keep the named cultivar dominant.
Why is my li jujube poor ripening in cool summers?
Without sustained summer heat the fruit fails to sweeten and ripen. In marginal climates plant in the hottest, most sheltered spot available.
Why is my li jujube spines on young wood?
Vigorous shoots carry sharp thorns. Wear gloves when pruning and site away from paths and play areas.
Why is my li jujube light crops grown alone?
Though partially self-fertile, yields improve markedly with a second cultivar such as 'Lang' nearby for cross-pollination.