![]() ![]() Aim to have four to six well-positioned, scaffold branches by the first year of bearing. Always prune after fruiting, and carry out many smaller branch prunings, rather than removing just a few larger branches. In recent years, it has been proven that pruning citrus can be beneficial for fruit production when it is done in such a way as to let more light penetrate the canopy of the tree. First put down a mulch of compost and then spread the fertiliser around the trunk, going as far out as the drip line of the branches. In addition, give the tree 75g of Epsom salts (magnesium sulphate) three times a year. In subsequent years, gradually increase this amount to 2,5kg for a mature, large citrus tree. During the first few years of growth, give the tree 300g at each application. ![]() Apply a balanced fertiliser that has a high nitrogen and medium potassium level in July, December and March. To conserve moisture, keep the root area well mulched at all times, preferably with compost. For the rest of the year, make sure that the trees do not dry out completely. The soil of citrus trees should be kept moist at all times, particularly when flowering and setting fruit. The soil in containers should be a fibrous loam enriched with dried cow manure and a tablespoon of bonemeal. The best soil for citrus is moderately heavy loam mixed with a good amount of decayed manure and sand. The roots of citrus require more oxygen than many other trees, so make sure the soil drains well and is never waterlogged. Plant in full sun and well-draining soil.To achieve the best growth and a bountiful harvest, bear in mind the following: You can also protect the plants by covering them with winter fleece. There are also dwarf citrus varieties which only grow to about 2m tall.Ĭitrus grown in containers can be moved under the roof of a north-facing veranda during the winter months to shelter them from frost. The plants will thrive in a container as long as they receive enough sunlight and are protected from freezing winter weather. Planting larger-growing citrus trees in containers will limit their ultimate size. ![]() Homeowners with small gardens need not deprive themselves of home-grown citrus. Alternatively, position other citrus in a warm microclimate within the garden, such as against a north-facing or west-facing wall, or on a roofed patio. Your local nursery will advise which varieties to choose.Ĭalamondins will tolerate brief spells of light frost. If you live in a region with mild winter frost (-1☌ to -2☌), lemons, navel oranges, certain Valencia orange varieties, some naartjie varieties (satsumas), clementines and mandarin hybrids, limes and kumquats can be grown in the garden.Įven if your garden experiences moderate frost (-3☌ to -5☌), you can still add a touch of the Mediterranean to your garden by growing kumquats, lemons and ‘satsuma’ mandarin trees in the garden, provided that the fruit fully matures before the frosts of winter begin, as only dormant trees will survive heavy frost. However, they can also be grown in wind- and frost-free dry inland areas if watered regularly. Apart from being edible and rich in vitamin C, the lush, evergreen foliage of citrus plants, their scented blossoms and the brightly coloured fruit that appears in winter are fantastic additions to the garden.Ĭitrus trees grow best in warm, temperate and subtropical climates without frost. Brighten up your winter garden with the brilliant neon colours of citrus fruits. ![]()
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