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Guide to Growing Citrus Plant in a Pot

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Updated: August 26, 2022

Citrus fruits are known for their sweet and tangy flavors, delightful fragrances, and numerous health benefits. But, what if you live in an urban area or have limited outdoor space? Fortunately, growing citrus plants in pots is a practical solution that can provide you with a fresh supply of delicious fruits right in your home. Here’s a guide on how to grow citrus plants in pots.

Choosing the Right Citrus Variety

Before buying a citrus plant, it’s essential to choose the right variety that suits your climate, space, and taste preferences. Some common varieties that grow well in pots include:

  • Dwarf Meyer Lemon: This is a popular variety that produces juicy and flavorful lemons year-round. It grows up to 6 feet tall and can be pruned to keep its size manageable.

  • Calamondin Orange: This variety is ideal for small spaces as it grows up to 4 feet tall. It produces tart oranges that are perfect for making marmalades and jams.

  • Kaffir Lime: This variety is famous for its aromatic leaves and bumpy green limes. It grows up to 8 feet tall and requires regular pruning to maintain its shape.

  • Satsuma Mandarin: This variety is cold-hardy and produces sweet, seedless mandarins that ripen in late fall. It grows up to 6 feet tall and prefers full sun exposure.

Choosing the Right Pot

The right pot size is critical for the growth and health of your citrus plant. A pot that is too small can stunt its growth, while a pot that is too large can lead to waterlogging and root rot. As a general rule of thumb, choose a pot that is one size larger than the current root ball of your plant.

Also, make sure the pot has adequate drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. You can also place a layer of gravel or broken pottery at the bottom of the pot to improve drainage.

Soil and Fertilizer

Citrus plants require well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. You can mix equal parts of potting soil, perlite, and sand to create a suitable potting mix.

Fertilize your citrus plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can also use organic fertilizers like fish emulsion, bone meal, or compost.

Watering

Citrus plants need consistent watering to thrive. Check the soil moisture level regularly by sticking your finger into the soil. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Also, avoid letting your plant sit in standing water for an extended period.

Sunlight

Citrus plants require full sun exposure for at least six hours a day to produce healthy fruits. Place your pot near a south-facing window or balcony where it can receive adequate sunlight.

Pruning

Prune your citrus plant regularly to remove dead or diseased branches and promote new growth. You can also shape your plant into a desirable form by trimming its branches.

Pests and Diseases

Citrus plants are susceptible to pests and diseases like spider mites, aphids, scale insects, and fungal infections. Inspect your plant regularly for any signs of infestation or disease and take appropriate measures like using insecticidal soap or neem oil.

FAQ

Can I grow citrus plants indoors?

Yes, you can grow citrus plants indoors as long as they receive adequate sunlight and proper care.

How often should I fertilize my citrus plant?

Fertilize your citrus plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

How can I prevent pests and diseases in my citrus plant?

Inspect your plant regularly for any signs of infestation or disease and take appropriate measures like using insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Can I grow different citrus varieties in the same pot?

It’s not recommended to grow different citrus varieties in the same pot as they have different growth rates and nutrient requirements.

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