Growing and caring for citrus trees

Citrus Hints & Tips. Citrus Tree Growing Hints.

Every now and then we are asked how to grow and maintain citrus trees in the greenhouse/conservatory. We are now pleased to offer growing hints on pruning, feeding and potting.

FAQ: When is the best time of year to prune my citrus tree? Answer: Citrus are best pruned in the spring when the sap starts to rise. This is when citrus start to produce their fresh water shoots.

FAQ: Where abouts should I prune my citrus tree? Answer: Citrus are best pruned just above an active bud. Active buds are usually evident just above a leaf node.

FAQ: There are buds growing below the graft. What should I do with them? Answer: Every now and then buds appear below the graft. This is the rootstock trying to grow through. It is best to remove the buds before they take over.

FAQ: Why are the leaves on my citrus tree turning yellow? Answer: This is either due to lack of feeding, or the pH is lower than it should be. We offer citrus summer and winter feed which really help to keep the leaves nice and green. Feed also helps a great deal to promote fresh healthy new growth all through the year.

To check the pH you can purchase a pH soil testing kit from your local garden centre. The pH should be around 6.5.

FAQ: When is the best time of year to repot my citrus tree? Answer: Citrus can be repotted any time of the year. We prefer to repot our trees in the spring time, but before the water shoots start to sprout.

FAQ: What type of compost should I use to repot my citrus tree in? Answer: We recommend John Innes No3, but you will need to add bark chippings/perlight/grit to help aid drainage. You may also require a small amount of garden lime to increase the pH to 6.5.

For all our other growing instructions, please refer to our citrus fact sheet. Citrus fact sheet

We hope you find our hints and tips useful and enjoy growing your new citrus tree.

Site Sponsors

• 

  Custom Search
• PC WORLD Jersey Plants Direct