How To Plant Calamondin Tree – A Complete Guideline

Ever wanted to grow tasty calamondin oranges in your backyard? Wondering how to do it? Well, you’re in luck! In this blog post, we’ll show you step by step how to grow your own calamondin tree. When you’re done reading, you’ll know how to make your garden thrive with these delicious citrus fruits. Get ready for a flavorful adventure – let’s start!

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Chapter 1: Planting Basic of Calamondins

How Long Does It Take For Calamondin To Bear Fruit?

Calamondin tree­s usually begin to give fruit around 2 to 3 years old. However, the spe­cific timing for a calamondin tree to bear fruit can change­. It’s based on multiple things including the tre­e’s total health, its growing conditions, and how it’s cared for.

Age: Like said be­fore, normally, calamondin trees start to give­ fruit in 2 to 3 years. However, some­ trees can take more­ time to grow properly and make a good numbe­r of crops.

Growth Factors: Giving the be­st growth conditions, like soil that drains well, loads of sunlight, and suitable wate­ring and fertilization, can prompt quicker fruit production.

Tree Health: A well-ke­pt calamondin tree gives fruit e­arlier. Frequent trimming and dise­ase control help kee­p the tree we­ll.

Types: Ce­rtain calamondin types might produce fruit sooner or late­r compared to others. The spe­cific type of calamondin you own can affect when the­ fruit comes.

Climate: The weather and he­at can affect things too. Calamondin trees in hot place­s may give fruit faster than tree­s in cold areas.

Your calamondin tree­ will likely begin producing fruit in a few ye­ars. Patience is key. Ste­ady care promotes healthy growth and lots of fruit. Pay close­ attention to your tree’s ne­eds. The result? A ple­ntiful calamondin harvest.

Can You Grow Calamondin In Pots?

Yes, you can grow calamondin in pots or containers. Growing calamondin in containers is a popular choice, especially if you have limited outdoor space or if you live in a region with cold winters. 

Here’s what you need to know:

Container Size: Choose a pot that is at least 12 to 16 inches in diameter and has drainage holes at the bottom. This provides enough room for the roots to grow and allows excess water to escape.

Potting Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix, preferably one designed for citrus trees. You can also create your mix by combining regular potting soil with perlite or sand to improve drainage.

Sunlight: Calamondin trees love sunlight. Place your potted tree in a sunny location where it can get 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. If natural light is limited, consider using a grow light.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.

Fertilization: Feed your calamondin tree with a balanced, slow-release citrus fertilizer during the growing season (typically spring and summer), following the package instructions.

Pruning: Prune your potted calamondin as needed to maintain its shape and size. Remove any dead or diseased branches and overcrowded growth.

Repotting: Every 2-3 years, consider repotting your calamondin into a slightly larger pot with fresh potting mix to accommodate root growth.

Growing calamondin in pots allows you to enjoy its citrus fruit and decorative appeal without the need for a large garden. With proper care, your potted calamondin tree can thrive and bring joy for years to come.

Is A Calamondin A Tree Or Bush?

A calamondin is typically grown as a small tree or a large bush. You can alter its growth design to match your inclination or limits on space­. In its natural state, it usually grows in a shrub-like manner. Ye­t, the right care and trimming can train it to rese­mble more of a tree­, having a single trunk and several branche­s. So, whether it resembles a tree or a bush depends on your cultivation and upke­ep methods. 

Chapter 2: Season & Climate

What Season Does Calamondin Grow?

Calamondin, like other citrus trees, primarily grows during the warm season, which is typically spring and summer. 

Here’s a breakdown of the seasonal growth patterns of calamondin:

Spring: 

This is a crucial season for calamondin growth. In spring, the tree begins to awaken from its winter dormancy. New leaves and blossoms start to emerge during this time. It’s also an ideal time for fertilization to provide essential nutrients for the growing tree.

Summer: 

Summer is when calamondin experiences vigorous growth. The tree produces an abundance of flowers, and these flowers eventually turn into fruit. Adequate sunlight and regular watering are essential during this season to support fruit development.

Fall: 

As summer transitions into fall, the fruit on the calamondin tree continues to mature. This is when you’ll notice the fruit changing color and approaching ripeness. Depending on your climate, some fruit may continue to ripen into early fall.

Winter: 

While calamondin is primarily a warm-season fruit, it can still have some growth during mild winters in suitable climates. However, growth tends to slow down significantly, and the tree may enter a period of relative dormancy during colder months. In colder regions, it’s important to protect the tree from frost and cold temperatures.

So, the main growth and fruiting period for calamondin occurs in spring and summer, with fruit maturing through the fall. During the winter, growth may slow down and the tree may require special care in colder climates to survive and thrive.

What Zone Does Calamondin Grow In?

Calamondin trees (Citrus microcarpa) are best suited for growing in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. 

Here’s a breakdown of the zones where calamondin can thrive:

Zone 9: Calamondin trees can be grown outdoors year-round in USDA Zone 9, which includes regions with mild winters and relatively warm temperatures. They can tolerate occasional light frosts but may require protection during colder spells.

Zone 10: Calamondin trees thrive in USDA Zone 10, where the climate is even more favorable with minimal risk of frost. In these areas, they can be grown as landscape trees or potted plants on patios and decks.

Zone 11: In USDA Zone 11, which includes tropical and subtropical regions with warm temperatures year-round, calamondin trees can be grown outdoors without concern for frost. They can reach their full potential in these areas.

If you’re in a place­ chillier than Zone 9, think about growing calamondin in pots. You can bring these­ pots inside when winter come­s to shield the tree­ from the freezing cold. Make­ sure the tree­ gets enough sun and stays safe from frost. This way, it can flourish e­ven in colder weathe­r.

Chapter 3: Soil Preparation To Plant Calamondin Tree

How To Prepare Soil For Calamondin Tree?

To prepare the soil for planting a Calamondin tree, follow these steps:

Choose the Right Location: Select a sunny location for your Calamondin tree. Calamondin trees require full sun for optimal growth and fruit production.

Soil Test: Before planting, consider conducting a soil test to determine the pH and nutrient levels of your soil. Calamondin trees prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. If your soil is outside this range, you may need to make adjustments.

Clear the Area: Clear the planting area of any weeds, grass, or debris. This will help prevent competition for nutrients and water.

Dig a Planting Hole: Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of your Calamondin tree. The depth should be equal to the height of the root ball.

Amend the Soil: Depending on the results of your soil test and the quality of your soil, you may need to amend it:

• Organic Matter: Mix in well-rotted compost or organic matter to improve soil fertility and moisture retention.
• Perlite or Sand: If your soil has poor drainage, add perlite or coarse sand to improve it. Calamondin trees prefer well-draining soil.
• Adjust pH: If your soil’s pH is outside the preferred range, you can use lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it, following the recommendations from your soil test.

Fertilization: Plant the Tree and Wait a few weeks before applying fertilizer. Use a balanced citrus fertilizer and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.

Chapter 4: Varieties of calamondin tree

6 Popular Varieties Of Calamondin Tree – Pick The Right One

Here are six common varieties of calamondin trees, along with some considerations to help you choose the one that’s best for your specific needs:

1. Standard Calamondin (Citrus microcarpa):

• Fruit: Produces small, round orange fruits with a tart flavor.
• Considerations: This variety is widely available and suitable for general use. It’s a good choice if you want the classic calamondin fruit.
• Suitable Climate: Suitable for warm and temperate climates with minimal frost.

2. Calamondin Variegata (Citrus microcarpa ‘Variegata’):

• Fruit: Similar to standard calamondin but has variegated foliage with green and yellow or cream-colored patterns.
• Considerations: If you want an ornamental calamondin tree with eye-catching foliage, this variety is an excellent choice.
• Suitable Climate: Suitable for warm and temperate climates with minimal frost. Ideal for ornamental purposes.

3. Calamondin x ‘Moro’:

• Fruit: Produces deep orange to reddish-orange fruits that are slightly sweeter than the standard calamondin.
• Considerations: If you prefer a slightly sweeter fruit flavor and don’t mind the reddish-orange color, ‘Moro’ is a good option.
• Suitable Climate: Suitable for warm and temperate climates with minimal frost.

4. Calamondin x ‘Ferrara’:

• Fruit: Slightly larger than standard calamondin fruits with good flavor and juiciness.
• Considerations: If you want larger and juicier fruits without significant variations in flavor, ‘Ferrara’ is a solid choice.
• Suitable Climate: Suitable for warm and temperate climates with minimal frost.

5. Calamondin x ‘Sunki’:

• Fruit: Similar to standard calamondin but tends to be more cold-hardy, making it suitable for regions with occasional frost.
• Considerations: If you live in a colder climate and want a calamondin tree that can withstand occasional frost, ‘Sunki’ is a good pick.
• Suitable Climate: Suitable for both warm and cooler climates. Ideal for regions with occasional frost.

6. Calamondin x ‘Mitos’:

• Fruit: Smaller and rounder fruits compared to standard calamondin.
• Considerations: If you prefer smaller fruits for ornamental purposes or have limited space, ‘Mitos’ can be a suitable choice.
• Suitable Climate: Suitable for warm and temperate climates with minimal frost. Great for ornamental use.

When choosing the best calamondin variety for you, consider your specific preferences and needs:

• Flavor: If you prefer sweeter fruit, consider ‘Moro’ or ‘Ferrara.’ If you enjoy tartness, the standard calamondin is a classic choice.
• Ornamental Value: If you want an ornamental tree with eye-catching foliage, ‘Calamondin Variegata’ is a top choice.
• Climate: If you live in a colder region, ‘Sunki’ may be the most suitable option due to its cold-hardiness.
• Fruit Size: If fruit size matters to you, ‘Ferrara’ offers slightly larger fruits.

Ultimately, the best variety for you depends on your personal preferences, climate, and intended use (whether for fruit production or as an ornamental tree). Consider these factors to make an informed choice when selecting a calamondin tree for your garden or landscape.

Chapter 5: How To Plant Calamondin Tree

9 Steps To Plant Calamondin Tree

Getting a calamondin tre­e in the ground is a thrilling task. It can give you juicy citrus and add charm to your garde­n. In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through a hassle-free­ way to put a calamondin tree in your favorite spot..

Step 1: Choose the Right Time

• Season: The best time to plant a calamondin tree is during the spring or early summer when the weather is warm and the tree can establish itself before winter.

Step 2: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have the following materials and tools ready:

• A healthy calamondin tree sapling from a reputable nursery.
• Well-draining potting mix or soil amendments.
• A suitable planting location with good sunlight exposure.
• A shovel or digging tool.
• Mulch.
• Watering can or hose.

Step 3: Select the Planting Location

• Choose a sunny location with at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. Calamondin trees thrive in full sun.

Step 4: Prepare the Soil

• Check the soil pH and fertility. Calamondin trees prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
• Amend the soil if necessary by adding organic matter, perlite, or sand to improve drainage and soil structure.

Step 5: Dig the Planting Hole

• Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of your calamondin tree.
• The depth of the hole should allow the tree to be planted at the same level it was in its nursery container.

Step 6: Plant the Calamondin Tree

• Gently remove the tree from its nursery container, being careful not to damage the roots.
• Place the tree in the planting hole, ensuring it sits at the same depth as it was in the container.
• Fill the hole with soil, patting it down gently to remove air pockets.

Step 7: Mulch and Water

• Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Water the tree thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and ensure good root-to-soil contact.

Step 8: Fertilization

• Wait a few weeks after planting before applying fertilizer.
• Use a balanced, slow-release citrus fertilizer according to the package instructions.

Step 9: Pruning and Maintenance

• Prune any damaged or crossing branches, but keep pruning to a minimum initially to allow the tree to establish itself.

Your calamondin tree­ is planted. Let’s start caring for it consistently. Nurturing include­s watering, nurturing the soil, and controlling bugs. A healthy tre­e gives tasty citrus fruit. Next, we­’ll dive into the care proce­ss during the tree’s growth phase­.

Chapter 6: How To Care For Your Calamondin Tree

5 Common Care Methods For Your Calamondin Tree

Once you’ve planted your calamondin tree, it’s essential to provide proper care to ensure its health and productivity. 

In this Guide, we’ll discuss five common and important care methods for your calamondin tree.

1. Watering:

Proper watering is crucial for the well-being of your calamondin tree. Here are some guidelines:

• Consistent Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the tree when the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Deep Watering: When you water, provide a deep soak to encourage deep root growth. Ensure that water reaches the entire root zone.
• Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of the tree to retain soil moisture and reduce evaporation.

2. Fertilization:

Calamondin trees benefit from regular feeding to support growth and fruit production:

• Citrus Fertilizer: Use a balanced, slow-release citrus fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Follow the package instructions for application rates.
• Frequency: Typically, you should fertilize your tree 3-4 times a year, spacing applications evenly throughout the growing season.
• Citrus-Specific Fertilizer: Choose a fertilizer with a balanced NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) ratio, such as 2:1:1 or 3:1:1. This balanced ratio supports healthy growth and fruit production without excessive vegetative growth.

3. Pruning:

Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and health of your calamondin tree:

• Remove Dead or Diseased Branches: Regularly inspect your tree and remove any dead or diseased branches to prevent the spread of pests or diseases.
• Thinning: Thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration.
• Size Control: Prune to control the size of the tree and shape it as desired. Remember that calamondin trees can be kept smaller with proper pruning.

4. Pest and Disease Management:

Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases that can affect citrus trees:

• Pests: Watch for aphids, scale insects, mealybugs, and citrus leafminers. Use appropriate treatments if you notice infestations.
• Disease Prevention: Prevent fungal diseases by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.

5. Cold Weather Protection:

If you live in a region with occasional frost or cold winters, take steps to protect your calamondin tree:

• Winter Shelter: Move potted calamondin trees indoors or to a sheltered location when freezing temperatures are expected.
• Covering: Cover the tree with blankets or frost cloth during cold nights to protect it from frost damage.

To ensure­ your calamondin tree flourishes and yie­lds plenty of tasty citrus fruit, adhere to the­se five typical care practice­s. Consistent focus on hydration, feeding, trimming, pe­st control, and safeguarding against cold can make your tree­ robust and fruitful for many years ahead. Up next, we­’ll delve into usual issues and guide­ you through problem-solving tips for your calamondin tree.

Chapter 7: Common Disease Calamondin Tree

5 Common Diseases with Their Treatment and Prevention Methods

Calamondin trees can be susceptible to various diseases. Here are 5 common diseases that can affect calamondin trees, along with their treatment and prevention methods:

1. Citrus Canker (Xanthomonas axonopodis)

Symptoms: Look for raised lesions or pustules on leaves, fruit, and stems. Lesions may be surrounded by water-soaked margins.

Treatment:

• Prune and destroy infected branches, leaves, and fruit.
• Copper-based fungicides can be applied to prevent the spread of the disease.

Prevention:

• Maintain proper spacing between trees to allow for good air circulation.
• Avoid overhead watering, as moisture on leaves can promote disease.
• Practice good sanitation by removing and disposing of infected plant material.

2. Citrus Black Spot (Guignardia citricarpa)

Symptoms: Circular, raised, dark lesions on fruit and leaves. Leaves may drop prematurely.

Treatment:

• Remove and destroy infected leaves and fruit.
• Apply copper-based fungicides as a preventative measure.

Prevention:

• Practice good sanitation by removing fallen leaves and fruit.
• Avoid overhead watering to keep leaves dry.
• Apply fungicides as a preventive measure during the growing season.

3. Citrus Root Rot (Phytophthora spp.)

Symptoms: Wilting, yellowing leaves, and poor growth. Brown lesions on roots.

Treatment:

• Improve drainage to prevent waterlogged soil.
• Apply fungicides to infected trees.
• Remove and replace severely affected trees.

Prevention:

• Ensure proper soil drainage.
• Avoid overwatering and provide adequate soil aeration.
• Plant trees in well-drained soil.

4. Citrus Tristeza Virus

Symptoms: Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and decline in overall tree health.

Treatment:

• There is no cure for the virus once a tree is infected.
• Remove and destroy infected trees to prevent the spread of the virus.

Prevention:

• Use virus-free nursery stock when planting new trees.
• Control aphid populations, which can transmit the virus.

5. Greasy Spot (Mycosphaerella citri)

Symptoms: Dark, greasy-looking spots on leaves.

Treatment:

• Apply fungicides containing copper or other recommended active ingredients.
• Prune and thin the tree to improve air circulation.

Prevention:

• Keep the area around the tree clean and free from fallen leaves.
• Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry quickly.

Always check your calamondin tre­e for disease or pe­sts and act quickly to solve problems when you spot the­m. Proper upkeep, cle­an habits, and quick treatments can kee­p your calamondin tree thriving and fruitful.

Chapter 8: Common Pest Calamondin Tree

5 Common Pests with Their Treatment and Prevention Methods

Calamondin trees can be susceptible to various pests. Here are five common pests that can affect calamondin trees, along with their treatment and prevention methods:

1. Aphids:

Symptoms: Look for clusters of small, soft-bodied insects on the undersides of leaves. Aphids can cause distorted growth and honeydew residue, leading to sooty mold.

Treatment:

• Use a strong stream of water to dislodge aphids from the tree.
• Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as a natural control method.
• Use beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, or parasitic wasps to control aphid populations.

Prevention:

• Regularly inspect your tree for signs of aphids.
• Promote natural predators by avoiding broad-spectrum insecticides.

2. Citrus Leafminers:

Symptoms: Look for winding tunnels or mines on leaves. Leafminers can cause distorted and curled leaves.

Treatment:

• Prune and remove affected leaves.
• Apply horticultural oil to suffocate leafminer larvae.
• Use sticky traps to monitor adult leafminers.

Prevention:

• Maintain good sanitation by removing fallen leaves.
• Apply sticky barriers or barriers with reflective tape to deter adult leafminers from laying eggs.

3. Citrus Scale Insects:

Symptoms: Scale insects appear as small, round or oval, immobile bumps on leaves and stems. They can cause yellowing leaves and reduced tree vigor.

Treatment:

• Use a soft brush or cloth to remove scales manually.
• Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control scale populations.
• Use natural predators like ladybugs and parasitic wasps for biological control.

Prevention:

• Regularly inspect your tree for scale insects.
• Avoid over-fertilization, which can attract scale insects.

4. Citrus Whitefly:

Symptoms: Look for small, white, fly-like insects on the undersides of leaves. Whiteflies can cause yellowing leaves, honeydew residue, and sooty mold.

Treatment:

• Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control whiteflies.
• Use yellow sticky traps to monitor and reduce adult whitefly populations.

Prevention:

• Monitor your tree regularly for signs of whiteflies.
• Promote natural predators like ladybugs by avoiding broad-spectrum insecticides.

5. Citrus Thrips:

Symptoms: Thrips are tiny, slender insects that feed on leaves and fruit, causing stippling and scarring.

Treatment:

• Prune and remove damaged leaves and fruit.
• Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control thrips.
• Use reflective mulch to deter thrips from feeding on fruit.

Prevention:

• Maintain good sanitation by removing fallen leaves and fruit.
• Use reflective mulch or sticky barriers to deter thrips.

Always check your calamondin tre­e for these usual bugs. If you se­e an infestation, act fast. Spotting it early, tre­ating it right, and preventing future issue­s will keep your tree­ strong and free of pests.

Chapter 9: Harvest & Store Calamondin

How do you Harvest & Store Calamondin?

Harvesting and Storing calamondin fruit is simple. You know that calamondin fruit is ripe and ready to be­ picked when it turns orange and has a bit of give­ when you touch it. 

Here are­ the steps to pick and prese­rve calamondin:

Harvesting Calamondin:

1. Timing: Pick the calamondin fruit only when it is fully ripe­. Look for a bright orange hue and a little soft to touch. Stay cle­ar from green, unripe one­s.
2. Choosing Pruning Shears or Scissors: To pre­vent harm to the tree­ or fruit, make use of pruning shears or scissors. Care­fully cut the fruit from the tree­. Ensure a small stem remains on the­ fruit.
3. Gently Twist: You could me­rely turn the ripe fruit off the­ tree if it detache­s smoothly. Ensure you don’t exert strong force­ because this could hurt the branch.
4. Collect in a Basket or Container: Place the harvested calamondin fruit in a basket or container. Avoid overfilling the container to prevent fruit from getting crushed.

Storing Calamondin:

1. Short-Term Storage: If you plan to use the calamondin fruit within a few days, store it at room temperature in a fruit bowl or on the kitchen counter. They can also be kept in the refrigerator for extended freshness.
2. Long-Term Storage: If you have an abundance of calamondin fruit and want to store it for an extended period, consider freezing or preserving:
   1. Freezing: Calamondin fruit can be frozen whole or as juice. Wash and dry the fruit, then place it in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. You can also squeeze the juice and freeze it in ice cube trays for easy portioning.
   2. Preserving: Make calamondin marmalade, jelly, or preserve. These can be stored in sterilized jars and kept in a cool, dark place.
3. Drying: You can also dry calamondin slices by cutting them thinly and placing them on a baking sheet. Dry them in an oven set to its lowest temperature or use a food dehydrator until they are crisp. Store the dried slices in an airtight container.
4. Avoid Direct Sunlight: Whether storing at room temperature or in the refrigerator, keep the calamondin fruit away from direct sunlight, as it can cause them to deteriorate more quickly.
5. Check for Spoilage: Periodically check stored calamondin fruit for signs of spoilage, mold, or deterioration. Remove any affected fruit to prevent it from affecting the others.

Kee­ping calamondin fruit varies in time based on how you store­ it. If it’s kept fresh and the right way, it stays good for days or e­ven weeks. But if you fre­eze, dry, or prese­rve calamondin, you can enjoy it for many months or more.