Troubleshooting
So Jujube problems — and how to fix them
So Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba 'So') 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
Suckers appear around the base and along roots. Remove them to prevent a thicket and keep the ornamental contorted form clean and dominant.
Poor ripening in cool summers
Needs sustained heat to ripen and sweeten the small fruit; in cooler climates it stays bland. Plant in the hottest, sunniest, most sheltered spot.
Lighter crops grown alone
Partially self-fertile but more productive with a second cultivar such as 'Li' or 'Lang' for cross-pollination.
Spines on young wood
New shoots carry sharp thorns among the contorted branches. Wear gloves when handling and pruning.
Prevent so jujube problems before they start
Most so jujube issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for so jujube in general rather than its problems? Read the full so jujube care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
So Jujube problems — FAQ
Why is my so jujube root suckering?
Suckers appear around the base and along roots. Remove them to prevent a thicket and keep the ornamental contorted form clean and dominant.
Why is my so jujube poor ripening in cool summers?
Needs sustained heat to ripen and sweeten the small fruit; in cooler climates it stays bland. Plant in the hottest, sunniest, most sheltered spot.
Why is my so jujube lighter crops grown alone?
Partially self-fertile but more productive with a second cultivar such as 'Li' or 'Lang' for cross-pollination.
Why is my so jujube spines on young wood?
New shoots carry sharp thorns among the contorted branches. Wear gloves when handling and pruning.