Citrus

The fresh, sweet fragrance of citrus blooms is enough to stop most of us in our tracks, and knowing the fruit will soon follow is a great bonus! And the good news is, growing citrus plants like lemons, limes, kumquats and mandarins in Arkansas is not difficult. Here are a few bits of information to increase your success:

First, choose a sturdy container that can be easily moved and has good drainage. Glazed pottery works well since it’s not too heavy but does have a good thick insulating wall to protect the roots from the heat and cold temperatures. Next, fill the container with quality potting soil, like The Good Earth blend, which promotes root health and establishment and contains a nutrient starter charge. Plant the citrus plant in the soil and water in.

This plant can stay outside until the weather cools down this fall; but remember to bring it in when the temperatures are getting down into the 40’s at night. Wash the plant down with soapy water when bringing it in to avoid bringing in pests. When moving the citrus plants from outdoors in or vice versa, take your time. You want the plant to acclimate to change gradually and be successful in its new location. During the transition time, try to leave it outside during the day and bring it in and night. When the plant is indoors, place it in a bright area, away from a heating vent if possible, as they will dry it out fast and keep humidity levels low. Place the planter on a saucer of pebbles to help keep the humidity around the plant as high as possible. This is useful both indoors and outdoors. Water when the soil is dry two to three inches down from the surface. Fertilize with a slow release fertilizer like Osmocote as recommended on the product.

The Good Earth carries a variety of Citrus Plants, while they will need to be taken indoors in colder temperatures, all varieties available provide a beautiful sweet smelling bloom and will produce fruit in the fall.

• Will respond best in full sun
• Use a soil mix that is lightweight and drains well, like Good Earth Potting Soil
• Water before leaves show wilting, and when roots have reached about 50% dryness. Elevate pots above standing drainage water.
• Take inside when the temperature will dip below 45° F
• There is some variability on citrus variety so check your particular plant for specific care needs.