How to Harvest Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba, often referred to as a living fossil, is a tree renowned for its resilience and numerous health benefits. Harvesting its leaves and seeds at the right time is crucial to preserving their potent properties. Whether used in traditional medicine or modern supplements, the proper techniques for harvesting Ginkgo Biloba ensure the highest quality and efficacy of the plant’s valuable components. This guide aims to provide a clear and straightforward explanation of how to harvest ginkgo biloba. 

When to Harvest Ginkgo Biloba

The best time to harvest ginkgo biloba leaves is typically in the late summer or early fall, just before the leaves begin to change color. This is when the concentration of beneficial compounds, such as flavonoids and terpenoids, is at its peak. It is important to monitor the tree carefully during this period to ensure the harvest is conducted at the optimal time.

Ginkgo seeds, on the other hand, are usually ready for collection in the fall once the fruit has ripened and fallen from the tree. Handling the seeds should be done with care, as the pulp of the fruit can cause skin irritation. Harvesting during these specific times ensures the maximum potency and quality of the plant’s natural properties.

Tools and Supplies Needed

Proper tools and supplies are essential for successfully harvesting and processing ginkgo. For seed collection, gloves are a necessity to protect the skin from irritation caused by the fruit pulp. A sturdy collection basket or bag is helpful for gathering the seeds efficiently. Pruners or shears may be required to carefully trim branches when collecting leaves to avoid damaging the tree.

Additionally, drying racks or trays are essential for properly drying the leaves and seeds after harvest, ensuring they retain their potency. For long-term storage, airtight containers are recommended to preserve the quality of the ginkgo harvest. Having these tools and supplies on hand will streamline the harvesting process while maintaining safety and efficiency.

10 Methods How to Harvest Ginkgo Biloba

1. Understand the Ginkgo Tree’s Growth Cycle

Before attempting to harvest Ginkgo biloba, it’s crucial to understand the tree’s growth cycle and identify the appropriate time for harvesting. Ginkgo biloba trees are dioecious, meaning male and female reproductive organs grow on separate trees. Only female trees bear fruit, which contain the valuable seeds (often mistakenly called “nuts”). These fruits begin to ripen in late autumn, typically between October and November, depending on your climate. During this time, the fruit becomes soft, yellow-orange in color, and falls naturally from the tree. Observing this seasonal cue helps you avoid premature or ineffective harvesting and ensures the seeds inside are mature.

2. Identify and Select Mature Female Trees

Since only female Ginkgo trees produce the fruit used for seed or medicinal harvesting, identifying the right tree is essential. Mature female ginkgo trees begin fruiting once they are approximately 20–30 years old, though grafted cultivars may fruit sooner. Look for trees bearing clusters of plum-like, yellow fruits with a foul odor, especially underfoot in the fall. If you are unfamiliar with local trees, consult a plant identification guide or a horticulturist to confirm the species and gender. Once you’ve located a productive female tree, mark it for future harvests to save time and ensure a reliable source.

3. Wear Protective Gear During Harvesting

Harvesting Ginkgo biloba fruit requires careful preparation due to the unpleasant smell and potential skin irritation caused by the outer flesh. The fruit contains butyric acid, which emits a strong, rancid odor and can cause allergic reactions or rashes. To protect yourself, wear gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and even a mask if you’re sensitive to odors. Waterproof gloves or disposable latex gloves are particularly effective in preventing skin contact with the pulp. Protective clothing not only shields your skin but also allows you to work comfortably and efficiently without interruption.

4. Collect Fallen Fruits from the Ground

The easiest and most natural way to harvest ginkgo fruit is by collecting it after it has fallen from the tree. During peak fruiting season, inspect the base of the tree daily or weekly and gather fruit that has landed on the ground. Use a basket, bucket, or tarp to collect the fruit. Harvesting from the ground ensures that the seeds inside are fully mature and minimizes the risk of damaging branches. Avoid stepping on the fruit to prevent spreading the pulp or releasing more odor. If the tree is located in a public or shared space, be sure to get permission before harvesting.

5. Harvest Directly from Low-Hanging Branches

In addition to gathering fallen fruit, you can also harvest ginkgo fruit directly from low-hanging branches. This method is useful if you want to collect fruit before it falls and becomes overly ripe or insect-infested. Gently pull or twist the fruit from the branch, taking care not to damage the tree. You may use pruning shears for clusters of fruit that are more difficult to remove. If fruiting occurs high up in the tree, use a pole harvester or pick-up tool to reach without climbing. This method allows for cleaner harvesting and a reduced mess underfoot.

6. Separate the Seeds from the Pulp Promptly

Once harvested, it is important to process the fruit immediately. The outer flesh is soft, odorous, and potentially irritating to skin, so removing it promptly helps preserve the quality of the seed inside. Wearing gloves, rinse the fruit in a bucket of water and rub off the pulp using your hands, a brush, or a cloth. Some people prefer using a plastic bag to mash the fruit and separate the seeds, minimizing direct contact. After separating the seeds, discard the pulp in sealed compost bags to contain the smell. Always clean your tools and gloves after handling to avoid lingering odors.

7. Wash and Dry the Ginkgo Seeds Thoroughly

After separating the seeds from the pulp, wash them in clean water to remove any remaining residue. Rinse them several times and use a strainer or colander for convenience. Spread the cleaned seeds on a towel or mesh tray in a well-ventilated area and allow them to dry for a few hours or overnight. Do not expose them to direct sunlight or excessive heat, as this can affect their viability and flavor if intended for culinary use. Clean and dry seeds are essential for proper storage and further processing, such as roasting or preparing herbal remedies.

8. Store Ginkgo Seeds Properly

Once the seeds are completely dry, they should be stored properly to maintain freshness and viability. Place the dry seeds in a breathable paper bag or cloth sack and store them in a cool, dry, and dark location. For longer-term storage, you can refrigerate the seeds in an airtight container, especially if you plan to use them for planting in the next season. If intended for consumption, store the seeds in an airtight jar in the refrigerator to preserve their quality. Label the container with the harvest date for reference. Proper storage helps prevent mold, insect infestation, and spoilage.

9. Harvest Leaves Separately for Medicinal Use

In addition to the seeds, Ginkgo biloba leaves are also widely harvested for medicinal use, particularly for their potential cognitive and circulatory benefits. The ideal time to harvest leaves is in late summer or early autumn, just before they begin to yellow. Use sharp garden shears to snip healthy, green leaves from the outer branches. Avoid taking too many leaves from one branch to maintain the tree’s health. Spread the leaves in a single layer on a drying rack in a warm, dry room away from direct sunlight. Once dry, store them in glass jars or paper bags for later use in teas or tinctures.

10. Follow Legal and Ethical Harvesting Practices

When harvesting Ginkgo biloba—whether the seeds, fruit, or leaves—it’s important to adhere to local guidelines and ethical harvesting practices. If the tree is located in a public park, botanical garden, or someone else’s property, always ask for permission before harvesting. Avoid overharvesting from a single tree to ensure its long-term health and future fruit production. Practice sustainable collection by gathering only what you need and leaving some seeds behind for wildlife or natural propagation. Respecting nature and local regulations ensures that your harvesting efforts benefit both your garden and the broader ecosystem.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Proper maintenance and upkeep of trees and plants are essential to ensure their health and productivity over time. Regular pruning helps to remove dead or diseased branches, improving airflow and sunlight penetration while encouraging healthy growth. Mulching around the base of the tree can retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Consistent watering, especially during dry spells, is crucial, but be mindful of avoiding overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Periodic soil testing is recommended to check nutrient levels, and fertilization should be done accordingly to support growth and fruit production. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, addressing any issues promptly with organic or chemical methods as appropriate. By dedicating time and effort to maintenance, you can ensure that your trees or plants thrive and continue to contribute positively to the environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, foraging and harvesting with care and consideration is an essential part of fostering a sustainable relationship with the environment. By following ethical practices, respecting local guidelines, and prioritizing the health of natural resources, you contribute to the preservation of ecosystems for future generations. Remember that responsible harvesting not only supports your gardening efforts but also nurtures a mutual respect between humans and nature, ensuring a thriving and balanced environment. Follow these simple instructions outlined in this blog post about how to harvest ginkgo biloba, and you’ll be able to get the job done with ease.