Princeton Sentry Ginkgo

Name: Princeton Sentry Ginkgo
Brand: Nature Hills Nursery
SKU: 15851
Price: 88.08 USD
Availability: OutOfStock

Ginkgo biloba 'Princeton Sentry'

Nature Hills Nursery

$100⁰⁰

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Find your Growing Zone

Plant Size

#2 Container 3-4 Feet

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Plant your tree where it will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to promote its signature upright form. While it can handle light partial shade, full sun exposure is necessary to achieve the most vibrant golden yellow color in the autumn.
Soil: This tree thrives in well drained soil but is famously adaptable to almost any texture, including sandy or silty sites. If you are dealing with heavy clay, plant the root ball slightly high and incorporate organic mulch to help the roots breathe and avoid rot.

Watering Requirements

During the first two growing seasons, provide deep watering twice a week to ensure the root system becomes fully established. Mature Ginkgos are incredibly drought tolerant, but providing a deep soak during extended dry spells prevents leaf scorch and keeps the canopy lush. Inconsistent moisture during the establishment phase can lead to stunted growth and smaller leaves.

Pruning Tips

This cultivar naturally grows in a narrow, architectural column, so it requires very little pruning to maintain its shape. If you must remove a damaged or competing branch, do so in late winter while the tree is dormant. Pruning during dormancy allows the tree to seal its wounds quickly before the spring growth flush, which keeps the central leader strong and prevents lopsided growth.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring before the unique fan shaped leaves emerge. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers in late summer because they can trigger a flush of new growth that will not have time to harden before winter. This prevents the tips of the branches from suffering frost damage during the first cold snap of the season.

Delivery and Shipping

Preorder Shipping Schedule

We ship your plants when it's safe to transport them to your zone. Dates are estimated and subject to weather delays.

Zone 3-4	Week of March 30th
Zone 5	Week of March 16th
Zone 6-12	Week of March 2nd

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

The remarkable Princeton Sentry Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba 'Princeton Sentry') - also known as the Maidenhair Tree - is a truly distinctive large, deciduous tree that would look great planted along your street, as a shade tree in your backyard or as a showcase specimen in front of your home. The genus name is actually a misrendering of the Japanese 'gin' meaning silver and 'kyo' (meaning apricot) used in Japan in the 17th century.

We sell only the preferred male of the species because, unlike its female counterpart, it is not known for dropping smelly seed shells. All growing season, the unique two-lobed fan-shaped leaves in a rich green, have an almost leathery texture that will tempt you to reach out and touch them every time you walk by.

In the autumn, your Ginkgo's leaves will turn a brilliant blazing yellow that shimmers in the morning and late afternoon sunlight. This dazzling show persists for several weeks, and when the leaves do drop, they drop rapidly, forming a golden carpet around the tree! It's a marvelous display as the leaves blanket the ground beneath almost overnight. That also makes lawn cleanup easy!

This excellent male selection features an impressive form that is twice as tall as it is wide as it matures. Growing throughout USDA growing zones 3 to 8, this mighty tree has all the perks of its Ginkgo biloba roots, plus the longevity and beauty the species is known for!

Planting and Application:

The Ginkgo tree is often called a "living fossil" as it's similar to fossils that have been found millions of years ago. It is the only surviving member of a group of ancient plants believed to have inhabited the earth up to 150 million years ago. This tree has been widely cultivated and used medicinally as well as for its edible features. In some parts of the world, this tree is even considered to be sacred.

The Gingko has long been appreciated for its well-behaved root system. This is a great tree for use around walkways and patios because the roots stay deep and are not prone to lift pavement. These are fantastic street trees, specimens, and shade trees. Plant them anywhere you want a dramatic fall display!

This tree can tolerate almost anything: It does well in poor or compacted soil, and it can also withstand drought, winter salt, and even air pollution. They are quite deeply rooted and strong, highly resistant to both snow and wind damage.

Unique Foliage & Gorgeous More Columnar Form
Rich Green Fan-Shaped Foliage
Deciduous Tree With Golden Fall Color
Great Street Tree & Specimen
Fruitless Male Cultivar
Ancient Tree With A Fascinating History

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Ginkgo are easy to grow in average, medium moisture soil in full sun, and prefer moist, sandy, well-drained soils. Water newly planted trees regularly to not allow the root ball to dry out between waterings. The Princeton Sentry Ginkgo adapts well to most urban environments.

Provide a well-drained enriched site and water new trees regularly using the Finger Test method for best results. A 3-4 inch thick layer of mulch all around the tree's drip line helps create a pretty garden bed. If pruning is needed, do so while the tree is dormant in the winter or very early spring, removing dead or damaged branches.

Full Sun
Moist, Sandy Well-Drained Soil
Tolerates Alkaline & Compacted Soil
Pest & Disease Resistant
Very Cold Hardy & Strong

Princeton Sentry Ginkgo is a tree that is well worth having for a number of reasons. When you plant a Ginkgo, you not only get an appealing landscape tree, but also a conversation piece for friends and neighbors. Having a Ginkgo means not only possessing a tree, but also a "living fossil" with a rich and fascinating history. Order yours today!

Botanical Name

Ginkgo biloba 'Princeton Sentry'
Class
- Pinopsida
Species

biloba
Cultivar

Princeton Sentry
Growing Zones

3-8
Height

40-50 ft
Width

15-20 ft
Sunlight
- Full sun
Growth Rate

Slow
Flower Color
- Green
Leaf Color
- Green
- Yellow
Fall Color

Brilliant Yellow
Bloom Period

Late Spring
Does Not Ship To

AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

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Growing Zones 3-8

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mature size and growth rate of the Princeton Sentry Ginkgo?

The Princeton Sentry Ginkgo develops an upright form that's twice as tall as it is wide at maturity. This slow to moderate growing tree thrives in USDA zones 3-8. Plan for a columnar shape that works well in narrow spaces or as a street tree.

Does the Princeton Sentry Ginkgo produce smelly fruit or berries?

No, the Princeton Sentry Ginkgo will not produce smelly fruit or berries. This is a male selection that doesn't produce the malodorous seed shells that female ginkgo trees are notorious for. Choose this cultivar for mess-free landscaping, available at naturehills.com.

What are the soil requirements and tolerances for planting Princeton Sentry Ginkgo?

Princeton Sentry Ginkgo is extremely adaptable and tolerates poor soils, drought, air pollution, and urban conditions once established. This hardy tree thrives in USDA zones 3-8 and accepts virtually any well-draining soil. Plant in full sun to partial shade for best results.

How much sun exposure does the Princeton Sentry Ginkgo need?

The Princeton Sentry Ginkgo thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. This adaptable tree performs best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily across USDA zones 3-8. For optimal fall color and growth, plant in a location with morning sun exposure.

What are the watering and care requirements after planting Princeton Sentry Ginkgo?

Water deeply but infrequently once established, as ginkgos are quite drought tolerant. This hardy tree thrives in zones 3-8 with minimal care once its deep root system develops. Mulch around the base and avoid overwatering for best results.

Is the Princeton Sentry Ginkgo deer resistant or pest resistant?

Ginkgo trees are naturally deer resistant due to their tough, leathery leaves and unique chemistry. As a "living fossil" that's survived for millions of years, the Princeton Sentry has developed excellent resistance to most pests and diseases. Plant this hardy tree in zones 3-8 for a virtually maintenance-free landscape addition.

How is the Princeton Sentry Ginkgo shipped, and what condition does it arrive in?

Princeton Sentry Ginkgos ship as healthy, well-rooted specimens ready for planting in zones 3-8. They arrive carefully packaged with moist root systems to ensure successful transplanting. Plant immediately upon arrival or keep roots moist until you can get it in the ground.

Does Princeton Sentry Ginkgo require pruning, and when?

Princeton Sentry Ginkgo requires minimal pruning due to its naturally excellent form. This tree develops a strong central leader and attractive branching structure on its own. Prune only to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter while dormant.

Can Princeton Sentry Ginkgo tolerate urban conditions like salt, pollution, or compacted soil?

Princeton Sentry Ginkgo is exceptionally tolerant of urban stresses including air pollution, salt, and compacted soils. This hardy tree thrives in zones 3-8 and has survived for millions of years, making it naturally resilient to challenging conditions. Plant it confidently along streets or near walkways where urban pollutants are common.