- What must the substrate be like?
- How much water does the kaffir lime need?
- When and with what should the kaffir lime be fertilized?
- When do I need to repot my kaffir lime?
- Can the kaffir lime stand on the balcony/terrace?
- How is the kaffir lime overwintered?
- Do kaffir limes need to be pruned?
- What diseases/pests are common?
- tips and tricks
The Kaffir Lime or Kaffir Lime is an evergreen tree with interesting, leathery and quite large, dark green leaves. The rounded, heavily wrinkled fruits contain little, quite straw-like flesh. Above all, the very aromatic leaves are used, which - like our laurel - are also cooked and give the dishes a fine, citrus-like aroma. Kaffir lime is an indispensable spice in Thai cuisine in particular. In some countries, the fruits of the tree are also braised (especially in curries), but not eaten.
Which location does the kaffir lime prefer?
The kaffir lime comes from the tropics and needs a full sun, sheltered location. It does not tolerate cold or even frost at all.
What must the substrate be like?
The substrate should be permeable - the fine roots of the plant do not tolerate waterlogging - and also slightly acidic. Commercial lemon soil is best. Use a layer of expanded clay (€19.73) at the bottom of the pot to ensure proper water drainage.
How much water does the kaffir lime need?
The water requirement is moderate. The soil in the pot should not be permanently wet, otherwise the roots will rot. It is best to water when the top layer of substrate has dried. The soil should be slightly damp after watering, but not wet. Rainwater is best.
When and with what should the kaffir lime be fertilized?
Mix special citrus soil under the substrate in spring. Fertilization is repeated regularly during the growing season. Pale/light green leaves are an indication of deficiency symptoms.
When do I need to repot my kaffir lime?
Repot your kaffir lime every spring and provide it with fresh substrate. Older plants only need to be moved to a larger pot every two to three years.
Can the kaffir lime stand on the balcony/terrace?
Yes absolutely. However, the location must be sheltered from the wind, as the plant does not tolerate drafts.
How is the kaffir lime overwintered?
In winter, the kaffir lime has to be indoors because it is very sensitive to cold. You should place the sapling in a bright room at around 10 °C, watering it occasionally. Fertilizing, on the other hand, is not necessary in winter.
Do kaffir limes need to be pruned?
Yes, it is best to cut back the sapling in spring and remove diseased or dead shoots. Thinning out is also necessary so that your kaffir lime is sufficiently supplied with light.
What diseases/pests are common?
If the room air is too dry, spider mites often appear. Otherwise, the kaffir lime is plagued by the same pests and diseases as the lemon.
tips and tricks
The leaves, either cut into fine strips or whole, are an essential part of soups, sauces and various dishes in Thai cuisine. In addition, fresh, dried and candied fruits can be used to make drinks and as a spice, but especially their peel. The leaves should be frozen but not dried.
IJA