Many thanks to Portstone Garden Centre for this update.
CHS Members enjoy a 15% discount at Portstone Garden Centre
www.portstone.co.nz
Citrus (lemons, oranges, grapefruit, mandarins, limes, and kumquats) are ideal for growing at home in the garden or in pots.
They do best in a warm, sunny position sheltered from the wind and frost.
The best time to plant citrus is in Spring or early Summer or in Autumn. All citrus varieties are self-fertile so they can be planted alone, and fruit will be produced.
Take care when planting seedless varieties (like Mandarin Miho) with other citrus trees as they can form seeds if cross pollinated.
Citrus are acid loving. They require a well-aerated, free draining soil that is high in organic matter. If your soil site is damp, try digging through some compost or garden mix. If it is clay based add gypsum to help break up the soil. Mulch is great for citrus. Mulch holds moisture and builds humus. Wood chips or peas straw is good but keep it away from the trunk.
Water deeply once or twice a week depending on weather conditions. During the growing, flowering, and fruiting season, feed with citrus and fruit food. Throughout the year use seaweed concentrate.
Although citrus is easy to grow, they can develop problems. To keep your citrus healthy, try a regular spraying program. Using GroSafe Enspray 99 or Yates Nature’s Way on the tops and bottoms of the leaves each month will keep away insects and protect your citrus plant.
Many thanks to Portstone Garden Centre for this update.
CHS Members enjoy a 15% discount at Portstone Garden Centre