Fertilizing Citrus Trees in Pots
Citrus trees can be grown in pots, with the right soil and timely fertilizing. In order to maximize fruit yields and ensure healthy growth, potted citrus trees need the proper nutrients and care.
Fertilization Timing
Citrus trees in pots should be fertilized every six to eight weeks with an organic fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. The best time to fertilize is in the spring when the tree begins to grow, and then again around mid-summer. During the summer months, it’s also important to increase water frequency as the tree will need more water to maintain good health and growth.
Additional Considerations
– Avoid fertilizing when the temperature is above 95°F, as higher temperatures can burn roots, wreaking havoc on the tree.
– Once the tree starts flowering, it’s time to reduce the amount of nitrogen in the fertilizer to promote the creation of fruit, as too much nitrogen can inhibit fruit production.
– Use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-5-5 if possible, which is high in nitrogen but also balanced with phosphorus and potassium.
Additional Care Tips
Here are additional tips to ensure your citrus tree is growing and bearing healthy fruit:
– Make sure the drainage is good and that the pot is regularly checked for potting mix breakdown.
– Prune to encourage the growth of healthy branches and a strong root system.
– Protect from pests and diseases with treatments such as organic neem oil.
– Test the soil periodically to ensure the tree is getting the proper nutrients.
– Use mulch to help keep the soil moist and deter weeds.
Taking the time to fertilize your citrus tree properly will help ensure that you get a healthy crop of juicy fruit in the coming months. Stick to the recommended guidelines for fertilizer timing and ensure that you provide the tree with the right nutrients at the right time. With a little TLC, you’ll have an abundance of luscious citrus fruits in no time.
