🌳 Repotting a 2-Year-Old Ginkgo Tree and Watching It Turn Yellow in Autumn

A full seasonal journey of a young ginkgo tree: repotting, root care, soil mix, summer growth, and the beautiful golden color of fall.

Ginkgo trees (Ginkgo biloba) are one of the oldest living tree species and surprisingly easy to grow in pots if you understand their seasonal rhythm.
Here’s how my 2-year-old, 15 cm potted ginkgo grew through four seasons — from repotting to its golden autumn transformation.

1. Before Repotting: A 2-Year-Old Ginkgo in a Small Pot

My ginkgo tree had been in the same soil for almost two years.
Although the pot size was still okay, the soil was compacted and losing drainage.

Height: ~15 cm
Age: ~2 years
Condition: Healthy but rootbound signs beginning

Ginkgo trees don’t always need larger pots, but fresh soil makes a dramatic difference.

2-year-old ginkgo tree in its original pot before repotting

2. Root Check: Removing the Tree From the Pot

Before repotting, I removed the ginkgo carefully to inspect the roots.

The roots were tight but healthy
No rot, but soil lacked aeration
White feeder roots were visible — a good sign

This step is essential because ginkgo prefers well-draining, breathable soil.

3. Soil Mix: 3:1 Ratio of Potting Mix and Masato

For repotting, I used:

3 parts potting mix
1 part masato

This ratio keeps moisture balanced while preventing overwatering — crucial for ginkgo trees.

I did not change the pot, only replaced the soil. Even without upsizing, the tree responds well to fresh substrate.

4. Mid-Summer Update: Repotted Into a 3D-Printed Red Pot

Around July, I repotted the ginkgo again into a 3D-printed red pot for better ventilation and aesthetics.

These pots have excellent airflow, helping prevent root rot during humid months.
The tree adjusted quickly and started producing healthy new leaves.

5. Watering Routine for Potted Ginkgo

Ginkgo trees prefer:

Water only when the top soil dries
Then water deeply until it drains out the bottom
Avoid overwatering — their roots dislike soggy conditions

This deep-and-infrequent method encourages strong root development.

6. Autumn Transformation: Turning Yellow in November

When November arrived, the entire tree turned a bright golden yellow.
This is a normal and healthy sign for ginkgo trees entering dormancy.

Leaves turn yellow
Then drop completely
The tree rests through winter
New buds prepare for spring growth

Ginkgo must experience winter dormancy to grow well the following year.
Skipping winter (for example, keeping the plant warm indoors) weakens spring growth.

7. Ginkgo’s Four Seasons (Summary)

🌱 Spring

New leaves begin to unfold; branches extend.

🌿 Summer

Fastest growth period; requires strong light.

🍁 Autumn

Leaves turn golden yellow — the most iconic season.

❄ Winter

Complete dormancy.
Essential for next year’s healthy growth.

Conclusion

Repotting a young ginkgo tree is simple as long as you understand its seasonal cycle.
With the right soil mix, proper watering, and a true winter rest, your potted ginkgo will continue to grow stronger each year — and reward you with golden leaves every fall.