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 Citrus
trees are terrific for sunrooms. The glossy foliage
looks great year round, and the scent of the
blossoms can fill a room.
Citrus
can be grown from seeds, but it will take several
years to get fruit, and the overall results may be
disappointing. For better results, buy healthy
plants that have been grafted onto special
rootstocks. Before you invest in a citrus tree,
make sure you have a place in your home where the
plant will be happy. It needs a long day of sun and
good air circulation. Placing the tree near a
heating vent will cause the leaves to dry out and
drop. In warm climates, place the tree on a rolling
platform so that it can be left outdoors most of
the time, bringing it indoors only when frost
threatens.
The most common problems with citrus grown indoors
are scale insects and leaf drop. Watch the plant
closely for scale, since it is easiest to control
when it first appears. If there are only a few, you
can remove them with a sharp knife or fingernail,
or you can rub them with a Q-tip soaked in alcohol.
If you have too many insects to handle this way,
spray the plant with an insecticidal soap at 5-day
intervals, or alcohol spray (4 parts water to 3
parts rubbing alcohol.) Any time you use an alcohol
spray you should shade the plant for the
day.
Leaf drop
is usually caused by wide fluctuations in
temperature. Try to maintain a constant
temperature, both day and night.
GENERAL
CARE:
Watering
When the
soil is almost dry water the pot until the water
runs out the bottom, but never leave the plant
standing in water. Plastic pots are best for
maintaining a good moisture level. In winter, water
just enough to keep the soil from drying out
completely.
Humidity
Plants
can tolerate humidity in the summer, but prefer a
low humidity in winter. Luckily, the air in most
homes is quite dry in winter.
Feeding
Use a
high-nitrogen liquid fertilizer. Mix it 1/4
strength and feed the plant weekly from mid-spring
until late summer. Discontinue feedings in
winter.
Temperature
There are
some very good varieties that will withstand a
wider range of temperatures, but for most the
summer maximum should be around 87F (30C) and the
winter minimum should be 40F(5C).
About
the Author:
Jackie Carroll
GardenGuides
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