GROWING CITRUS IN THE RICHMOND AREA BRINGS A LITTLE SLICE OF PARADISE
Growing citrus plants has been a strong houseplant trend over the past few years. This is very true because people find having citrus plants very rewarding. Citrus is a pretty plant that has fragrant white flowers, pretty leaves, and fruit. The bottom line is that many people think they should have a houseplant that provides a reward for growing fruit that they can use in the kitchen. Personally, I have had a citrus plant for years. Mine is a Key Lime. It has grown over the years and is now in a 12” glazed container. It is in my sunroom for the winter, and then I move it outdoors in late April to early May when our weather is safe for tropical plants to be outdoors.
HERE ARE SOME BASIC REQUIREMENTS TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN GROWING CITRUS IN CONTAINERS
SITE SELECTION
Citrus plants are sun lovers. In general, citrus trees prefer as much sun as possible. Indoors, I suggest a south-facing window with lots of bright natural light.
GROWING MEDIUM
I recommend a high-quality soil medium. We carry Espoma Organic soil that is excellent for potted tropical plants. It is light, provides good drainage, and is high in organic matter.
WATERING
Apply room-temperature water when the surface soil is dry to the touch. I suggest using your finger down to the knuckle to feel the soil. If it feels dry, slow water thoroughly until some water comes out of the drainage hole. Now you know that the entire soil is wet. I water mine once every 7 to 10 days. Over-watering is the most common way people kill their house plants, so be sure to use your finger and feel the soil to determine how dry it is.
FERTILIZING
I don’t recommend feeding your plants this time of year. I would wait until spring and summer to feed. Feeding properly and at the right time is important for the overall health of your citrus plant. This may be obvious to some, but frequent watering of containers will flush out essential plant nutrients. A slow-release fertilizer such as Espoma Organic’s Citrus Tone or a general 20-20-20 fertilizer is recommended to prevent nutrient loss. I suggest feeding once a month, starting in late April and continuing through the summer and early fall.
POLLINATION
Most citrus plants are self-pollinating. Tangerines are the exception as they require cross-pollination.
MAINTENANCE
You need to be aware of insect issues. Aphids are a common problem in citrus plants. Aphids can be controlled very easily with a soapy water spray bath or organic insecticidal spray. You must also inspect your citrus plant periodically for any whitefly or scale insects.
HERE IS A SHORT LIST OF SOME OF THE VARIETIES THAT WE CARRY
- · Meyer Lemon
- · Key Lime
- · Kumquat
- · Clementine
- · Orange
- · Cocktail Mix (this is two different citrus growing in one pot)
- · and many other varieties!
Now is a great time to visit us and see our selection of citrus plants. Enjoy!!!