The chinotto or bitter orange grows very weakly and extremely compressed. This citrus variety forms a small, compact bush with an abundance of flowers and fruit. The long-lasting fruits are smaller than the normal form. Candied fruits used to be made from the chinotto.
location
Like all citrus varieties, the Chinotto prefers to be sunny, warm and sheltered. You should definitely protect the plant from drafts and strongly fluctuating temperatures. Between June and September, the Chinotto is best placed in a sheltered, if possible covered place in the garden, on the balcony or the terrace.
substrate
It is best to plant the Chinotto tree in citrus soil, which contains the optimal composition for citrus species. Also ensure good drainage by packing a layer of expanded clay ($17.99) or lava quarry at the bottom of the pot. There is hardly anything (apart from the cold) that citrus plants like less than waterlogging.
pour
As with all other types of citrus, the same applies to the Chinotto: neither too much nor too little watering. The tree does not tolerate wetness at all, but excessive drought also damages it. Check the soil with your finger: it is time to water when the surface of the substrate has dried off. After watering, the soil should be moist but not really wet. Rainwater or stagnant water is best suited, as the Chinotto is also sensitive to limescale.
Fertilize
Fertilize your Chinotto tree about every one to two weeks with a special citrus fertilizer that contains all the nutrients in the right composition.
When and how to cut
The shape and thinning cut should be made in spring, if possible, before the first shoots sprout.
pests
Like all citrus species, the Chinotto is often attacked by scale insects, aphids and spider mites. The pests mainly appear in the winter quarters, when the plant is weakened anyway. If the infestation is still small, it is usually sufficient to spray the animals with a mixture of water and washing-up liquid to kill them all over.
Diseases
The Chinotto quickly reacts to mistakes in care by dropping leaves and/or discolored leaves. There can be various reasons behind this, which should be carefully explored.
- Plant is too moist
- Plant is too dry
- Nutrient deficiency (too little fertilized)
- Lack of light (especially in winter)
- Plant is exposed to drafts and / or temperature changes
hibernate
Like all citrus species, the Chinotto overwinters best in a cool but frost-free and bright location. It is sufficient if the temperatures are just above the freezing point.
tips and tricks
Also very pretty to look at is the Seville Orange, the fruit of which is traditionally used to make bitter orange marmalade. The fruits of the Chinotto are also ideal for jam.
IJA