How To Grow Calamansi In A Pot
Learn how to grow calamansi in this planting guide. Growing calamansi is rewarding due to the citrus-y fragrance of its flowers and the tangy, sweet flavor of its fruits.
Calamansi is a tropical fruit of citrus variety, sized between orange and lime. This small fruit tree grows mostly in South East Asia. It is mainly grown for ornamental purposes in other parts of the world. Calamansi bears smaller fruits than oranges that are sour, a little bit sweeter and juicy in taste. Besides, you don’t need a garden to grow Calamnsi as it can be grown in pots easily.
Other Names Philippine lime, calamondin, calamondin orange, calamansi, calamandarin, golden lime, kalamunding, kalamansi, Panama orange, Chinese orange, musk orange, and acid orange.
Calamansi tree grows in warm tropical and subtropical climate. The growing conditions are similar to that of other citrus trees. Whether you’re growing Calamansi in a pot or in your yard, you need soil that drains well. Calamansi trees grow well in dry soil that doesn’t retain moisture and remains waterlogged. If you are growing Calamansi in a pot, make sure to use one that is at least 15 inches of width and 20 inches of depth. If you’re growing it outdoors, dig a hole of 16 inches width and depth. Leave a space of approximately 1/2 feet between each hole.
Sowing the seeds
Get the seeds out of a Calamansi fruit. Use your fingers to poke about 1/2 inches holes in the soil. Then, plant the seeds in the holes. Sow several seeds in the pot or container, depending on its size, to increase the success rate. Space the seeds about 4 inches apart.
Watering and sunlight needs of Calamansi
The plant will thrive better if the soil is not too moist. It also encourages the plant to produce more flowers when it is a little stressed from the heat of the sun. Generally, water the Calamansi until the soil feels damp. Young trees usually need about 1 inch of water per week. Continue watering whenever the soil feels dry
Growing calamansi in full sun is required for healthy growth. Proper exposure to sun and temperature improves productivity.
Calamansi fertilization, pests and diseases
Calamansi needs to be fertilized every four months while it is growing. Fertilize every four months with about 2 to 3 1/2 ounces of 16-20-0 fertilizer mixed with urea. When the Calamansi tree is two years old, increase the amount to about 7 to 10 1/2 ounces every four months. Calamansi needs Nitrogenous fertilizers like urea.
Numerous pests attach and affect the Calamansi trees such as the citrus bark borers, aphids, and scales. Therefore, constant observation and regular monitoring are needed to protect your tree.
The Calamansi tree starts to produce fruits after two to three years.
Calamansi Health tip
For colon or stomach cleansing, drink one glass juice of a freshly picked calamansi on an empty stomach when you wake up in the morning. Do this at least twice a week. Squeeze 5 to 7 pieces of calamansi fruit in the glass and add water to it. Now enjoy your Calamansi juice
