Growing citrus in a pot is not difficult after all. However, you need to follow a few rules for them to thrive. Fertilization is a decisive factor in the process of fruit formation and plant condition. We recommend when and how to fertilize citrus for great results.
Many people grow citrus trees at home. If you want them to grow juicy and healthy fruits, you need to take good care of them. Fertilization is the basis. However, it is important when you do it and what you use to do it. We suggest how to effectively nourish citrus with fertilizers.
How to care for citrus?
Citrus plants need proper care to thrive. The basis of growing these plants is to provide them with a suitable place. They grow best in a bright and warm place with diffused light. Therefore, it is worthwhile to place them on the south or south-west windowsill.
With the approach of winter, when the plants go into vegetative rest, you should treat them to a lower temperature, approximately 12 to 15 degrees Celsius. You also have to remember that citrus plants do not tolerate temperature fluctuations and draftsand therefore do not place them near the radiator.
It is also very important to fertilize citrus trees regularlybecause when watering, the soil in the pot gradually loses nutrients. Subsequently, they are slowly washed out of the soil, making it sterile.
When should citrus be fertilized?
It pays to know when to fertilize citrus to get the most benefit. It turns out that the best time to fertilize citrus fruits is when they start to grow strongly. However, it is recommended to fertilize citrus trees three times a year. The first dose of fertilizer should be given at the beginning of the growing season, i.e. almost at the end of the yearr, when new buds appear on the plant. Another dose is given to citrus during the period of fruit growth. On the other hand, the last fertilizing is done at the end of summer. However, if you miss the summer fertilizing deadline, you can still do it in October.
How to fertilize citrus to achieve the desired effect?
It depends not only on the right timing. What you specifically feed your citrus plants is also very important. In this case supply them with three important elements – nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium – a trinity that is great for plant growth, strengthens its roots and allows it to produce healthy fruits.
This type of fertilization should be supplemented with micronutrients such as magnesium, iron and zinc. They play a key role in the formation of chlorophyll.
Citrus fertilization itself is not difficult. Just follow a few rules to enjoy beautiful and healthy plants. Adapt the dose of fertilizer to the size of the plant. Avoid watering and spreading fertilizer close to the trunk of the plantso as not to damage it and also to prevent burning of the roots. Before fertilizing, it is a good idea to moisten the substrate in the pot by lightly watering the plant.
Slow-dissolving fertilizers are a good choice. They gradually release nutrients into the soil, so there are no sudden jumps in concentration and the plant has continuous access to beneficial substances.
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