Citrus plants belong in the bucket in this country. This must grow together with the plant, for which we are responsible. The second aspect is the supply of fresh soil. Repot as soon as the plant needs it. It is important to recognize this, and of course the how!

Citrus plants need enough space to thrive

time for repotting

Citrus plants in this country ideally overwinter in a cool winter quarters, during which their growth is largely dormant. In the spring, when the new growing season begins, they should be repotted if necessary. It usually happens in February or March.

The roots of all citrus species are sensitive. These Mediterranean plants also grow comparatively slowly. That is why they are usually only repotted every two years when the roots are sticking out of the pot holes. We also recommend examining the soil of newly purchased citrus plants more closely and repotting the plant in more suitable soil if necessary.

Pot type and appropriate size

Citrus plants are often planted in clay pots because they are particularly decorative in them. But a clay pot is also optimal from other points of view:

  • it offers high stability
  • serves as a buffer in case of high water and salt content
  • the root system is better aerated through the fine pores

When repotting, always choose a new pot with a diameter around the rim that is approx. 2 cm larger than the old pot. If the plant lingers in a "giant pot" at some point, only the soil needs to be replaced

tips

The clay pot for a citrus plant should have a large drainage hole in the middle so that no waterlogging can form inside. So-called "clay feet" are also commercially available, on which you can place the pot.

Suitable soil for citrus plants

The quality of the soil has a decisive influence on the growth of the plant. Special soil for citrus plants is available on the market. It is water permeable and structurally stable, its nutrient composition meets all requirements.

But you can also mix soil for citrus plants yourself, and thus save money, especially with a larger citrus crop. Enrich good garden soil with quartz sand (€15.85) and crushed gravel. For the bottom third of the pot you will also need gravel for a drainage layer.

tips

Purchased citrus soil is already enriched with nutrients. Therefore, you should stop fertilizing for about 6 weeks after repotting.

How to repot a citrus plant

If your citrus plant is very large, you should get someone else to help you with the repotting. This minimizes the risk of accidentally breaking a few branches. Then proceed step by step.

  1. First fill the drainage material in the new pot.
  2. Add some soil.
  3. Put the pot down with a jerk so that the soil settles better.
  4. Get the citrus plant out of the old pot.
  5. Gently shake off the old soil and loosen the root system a little.
  6. Place the citrus plant in the middle of the new pot.
  7. Put fresh soil around it, which you compact a little by hand.
  8. Water the citrus plant well.

Category:

Vegetable garden