jianbin Jiang

Author    Correspondence author
Plant Gene and Trait, 2026, Vol. 17, No.   
Received: 01 Jan., 1970    Accepted: 01 Jan., 1970    Published: 26 Oct., 2026

Abstract Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) is characterized by prolific flowering, autumn–winter blooming, a relatively long fruit development period, and delicate fruit skin. Commercial fruit production is therefore readily affected by excessive crop load, imbalanced tree vigor, low-temperature stress, and uncoordinated water and nutrient supply. This paper systematically analyzes the application of flower and fruit management and tree regulation in commercial loquat production, with emphasis on flower bud differentiation and flowering and fruiting characteristics, fruit growth and quality formation, tree nutrient allocation, and the effects of source–sink relationships on commercial fruit development. In production management, appropriate flower and fruit thinning, regulation of cluster load, and timely fruit bagging can effectively improve individual fruit weight, soluble solids content, sugar-acid balance, and external fruit quality. Canopy training, renewal of fruiting shoots, and shoot regulation help improve canopy ventilation and light penetration, maintain appropriate tree vigor, and promote flower bud formation. Meanwhile, regulated deficit irrigation, balanced nitrogen–potassium fertilization, and precision water and nutrient management according to different developmental stages can further improve water and fertilizer use efficiency and coordinate vegetative and reproductive growth. Overall, commercial loquat production should focus on the dynamic balance among flower load, fruit load, and tree vigor, integrating flower and fruit thinning, canopy pruning, water and nutrient regulation, pollination assurance, and fruit protection throughout the production cycle. Future research should strengthen the quantitative evaluation of key regulatory indicators under different cultivars and tree vigor conditions, while integrating precision irrigation, intelligent monitoring, and mechanized management to promote standardized, precise, and efficient commercial loquat production.