Citrus in containers

Citrus grow well in large containers in Hawkins Superior Potting Mix. Smaller growing citrus, such as those grafted on Flying Dragon Rootstock are considered to be dwarf, making this variety ideal for growing in large containers.

Always ensure that citrus in containers receive adequate moisture and nutrients. Fertilise potted citrus every two to three months with an organic slow release fertiliser like Organic Plus. Additional soluble or liquid fertiliser is ideal, especially during the warmer months. Place the recommended quantity into a watering can, add water, stir and treat your citrus a couple of times a month. Regular fertilising will ensure your container- grown citrus grows strong and healthy while producing an abundance of bigger fruit.

For best results

Choose a sunny, well-drained position that is protected from strong winds. When planting more than one citrus, allow 3 to 4 metres between trees. When removing the tree from the pot or bag prior to planting, ensure that disturbance to the roots is minimal. Do not place fertiliser at the bottom of the hole. Place the tree gently into the hole, before backfilling, making sure it is planted at the same level as it was in the container. Half fill the hole around the plant with soil and add a bucket of water to settle the soil in the bottom of the hole. Finish filling the hole, packing soil firmly with your hands. Water again.

The soil under the canopy of citrus needs to be free from weeds and grass, particularly when the tree is young. Whether you are growing citrus in the garden or in a container, bare soil should be covered with straw mulch. Mulching material should not come into contact with the trunk of the tree.

Young trees need to grow and establish a strong root system before they produce fruit. If a citrus tree does produce fruit in its first year of growth in your garden, remove the fruit to strengthen root growth.

Watering

Generally the soil around citrus should be given a deep soaking by a slow running hose or irrigation system on the ground beneath the foliage. A newly planted tree should be watered often enough to prevent the roots from becoming dry. Watering during the flowering and fruit-setting periods is most important, as dry conditions mean the tree will not set fruit. Although deep, penetrating watering at least once a week is required, heatwave conditions may mean more frequent watering. During wet summer periods and winter, watering less frequently will be required.

Maintenance

It is essential to apply a complete fertiliser, preferably one that is specially formulated for citrus, as often as indicated by directions on the bag. As young citrus trees mature, the fertiliser rate can be stepped up. Always water before and after fertilising.

Young trees do not require pruning but if shoots appear within 30cm of the ground, or below the graft, they should be removed. Pruning should be restricted to the removal of dead wood and unwanted or long water shoots. Allow citrus to make as much growth as possible, encouraging the canopy of the tree to hang down to form a ‘skirt’ of important fruit-bearing branches.

Some lemon trees that have matured may require pruning as vigorous growth can lead to overcrowding of branches.

Pest & disease

From time to time citrus may show symptoms of stress from pest or disease. Treat scale and sooty mould by spraying with Pest Oil or White Oil. Severe infestations may require an oil-based spray combined with an insecticide.

Citrus Leaf Miner is active from November to May and usually only affects lush young growth causing silver trails and distortion of leaves. New growth should be sprayed regularly as it matures with Pest Oil to provide protection against attack by the leaf miner. Affected leaves should be removed and destroyed to interrupt the breeding cycle.

Broad mites, invisible to the unaided eye, also enjoy feeding on lush young growth. Affected leaves become bronzed in colour, the leaf edges curl in and the leaves remain narrow. Growth is stunted and affected foliage can fall. Combined with removing and destroying affected foliage, Wettable Sulphur or Sulphur Dust is effective against this mite

Confidor or Natrasoap can be used to control aphids, mites, mealy bug and bronze orange bug (stinkbug). Spherical 3mm diameter eggs of the bronze orange bug are deposited under leaves in groups of up to fourteen, arranged in four rows. In winter young green nymphs, about 6mm long, oval and flat in shape, shelter under the leaves. They are easily overlooked, except for their strong smell.

Lumps or galls on branches are caused by citrus gall wasp. It does not kill the tree but any part of the tree with galls should be removed and destroyed by the end of August to control this pest.

Available

Please take the opportunity to shop at Hawkins Home & Garden Centres and view for yourself the impressive range of citrus available for planting throughout the year.

Happy healthy strong guarantee

At Hawkins, they guarantee that every citrus tree they sell will grow up healthy and strong, every time. If at any time you are not completely satisfied, return it to them with your receipt and they will replace the plant. They’re here to help you grow.

Further information

At Hawkins Home & Garden Centres, Horticultural Advisors are always available to help you choose the right plants, soil conditioners, fertilisers and treatments most suitable for your particular needs. Just ask the experts at Hawkins.