Description
The Dwarf Calamondin orange tree is an acid citrus fruit originating from China as ‘acid orange’. This tree is a cross between a kumquat and a mandarin orange. The fruit is small and orange and resembles a small tangerine. The peel is thin, yellow to orange and easily separable. The fruit has a very sweet smell but a slightly sour taste, whereas the skin is surprisingly sweet.
This dwarf orange tree can grow to a height of between 1.5 and 2 metres tall. The plant performs very well as a patio plant or even trimmed as a hedge. It is hardier to cold than any other citrus.
Position:
The Calamondin orange tree thrives in hot, humid conditions and full sun.
Plant your dwarf trees about 3 metres apart to allow for their canopy to spread.
They also grow really well in a container of about 75L or larger.
Soil Type:
Calamondin oranges need well-draining, healthy sandy soil with a neutral pH. If your soil’s drainage isn’t optimal, plant your dwarf tree on a bit of a mound so the soil doesn’t become waterlogged. Add a bag of acid compost to the soil.
Mulch:
Mulching around your tree makes it appealing and allows the soil to benefit from a constant supply of nutrients gathered by its slow decomposition process. Mulching will also keep the soil moist on warmer days.
Watering:
Your tree needs to be well watered for the best fruits. In summer and spring, increase your watering so that the tree doesn’t dry out in the heat.
Fertilising:
If the leaves start to yellow, your plant may not have enough magnesium. Apply a little Epsom salt to the tree’s dripline (where the leaves extend their reach). Apply our slow-release Berry/All-plant Fertiliser its great for citrus.
Pruning:
You may decide to prune your tree if you need to keep its spread under control, prefer a particular shape, or have diseased or dead branches that are sapping it of its vital energy. This tree grows well as a hedge.
Pest and Disease Management
It is important to watch out for pests like citrus psylla, aphids, scale insects, mites, and diseases like mildew.
We recommend Effective Microorganisms (EM Control) to prevent the spread of these pests and diseases. Hose the tree first, to remove some of the pests, and then spray well with EM Control. As the tree grows larger it will be healthy and pests will be a thing of the past. It is organic and more affordable than most other products.
Our Neem Oil Pesticide is also most effective at controlling and preventing garden pests.
