Sweetheart Lychee in 10" Pot, grafted, No Ship to CA and HI

Note: You will receive one Sweetheart Lychee in 10" pot similar to the pictures

Sweetheart Lychee is a cultivar of the lychee (Litchi chinensis) known for its heart-shaped fruit, exceptional sweetness, and fragrant, tender flesh. The fruit's vibrant red skin is easy to peel, revealing translucent white pulp. This cultivar is prized for its concentrated flavor, early ripening period, and smaller, manageable size, making it ideal for home gardeners. Sweetheart Lychee trees thrive in tropical and subtropical climates and yield delicious fruit for fresh eating, smoothies, and desserts.

Key Care Tips for Sweetheart Lychee

1. Light Requirements

• Full Sun: Sweetheart Lychee needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production. A sunny spot enhances fruit sweetness.
• Indoor Growing: If growing indoors, ensure it gets plenty of bright, indirect light, or supplement with grow lights.

2. Temperature and Humidity

• Warm Temperatures: Lychee thrives in temperatures between 75°F and 95°F (24°C–35°C). It is frost-sensitive and cannot tolerate temperatures below 32°F (0°C). In cooler climates, consider growing it indoors or in a greenhouse during winter.
• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity. If grown indoors, increase humidity with a humidifier or place the plant on a water-filled tray with pebbles.

3. Soil Requirements

• Well-Draining, Slightly Acidic Soil: Sweetheart Lychee prefers slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5) that drains well. A mix of loamy, sandy soil is ideal. Avoid heavy, clay-like soils that retain excess water, leading to root rot.
• Soil Amendments: Improve drainage by mixing in sand, perlite, or organic compost if the soil is heavy or compact.

4. Watering

• Regular, Deep Watering: Water deeply, especially during the growing season (spring and summer), but allow the soil to dry out between waterings to avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
• Winter Care: Reduce watering during the winter months when the tree's growth slows down. Ensure the pot has drainage holes if growing in a container.

5. Fertilizing

• Balanced Fertilizer: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (NPK 10-10-10) during the growing season to promote healthy growth and fruit production. Apply in spring and midsummer.
• Avoid Excess Nitrogen: High-nitrogen fertilizers can encourage leaf growth over fruit production. In fall and winter, reduce or stop fertilizing.

6. Pruning and Maintenance

• Light Pruning: Prune occasionally to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged branches, and improve air circulation. Avoid heavy pruning, which can hinder fruiting.
• Remove Suckers: Trim any suckers growing from the base to promote stronger growth on the main branches.
• Flower and Fruit Management: If the tree is young or in a container, remove early flowers to allow the tree to focus on root and foliage development.

7. Pests and Diseases

• Pests: Sweetheart Lychee can attract pests like scale insects, mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
• Diseases: Lychee trees are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Ensure good drainage and avoid waterlogging. In humid conditions, fungal infections can occur, so good air circulation is important.

8. Container Growing

• Container Care: Choose a large pot (10-15 gallons) with good drainage. Ensure the container allows the roots to spread out and place it in a sunny location.
• Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate growing roots. Choose a larger pot with proper drainage to prevent water retention.

9. Harvesting

• Fruit Ripening: Sweetheart Lychee typically ripens in early to mid-summer, depending on climate and growing conditions. The fruit is ready to harvest when the skin turns bright red, the outer texture becomes bumpy, and it yields gently when pressed. The fruit should be sweet, juicy, and fragrant. Harvest carefully to avoid damaging the branches.

Summary

Sweetheart Lychee requires full sun, warm temperatures (75°F–95°F), and well-draining, slightly acidic soil to thrive. Regular watering, balanced fertilization during the growing season, and light pruning are key to successful growth. The tree benefits from moderate to high humidity and should be protected from frost and cold temperatures. Container growing is possible in cooler climates, with proper drainage and repotting every 2-3 years. With proper care, Sweetheart Lychee will reward you with delicious, sweet, heart-shaped fruit that ripens early in summer.