- These qualities make good citrus soil
- A mix of different components
- This is what you need for the best citrus soil
- Addition of lime for the ideal pH value
- Wait until the earth is needed
Citrus plants need to put their roots in soil that has special properties. That is why special citrus soil is offered in the trade. This may stand out with quality, but it is not cheap in price. For anyone who cultivates a lot of citrus plants, it is worth mixing citrus soil yourself.
Compost, garden soil, and clay and sand make a good mix for citrus plants
These qualities make good citrus soil
Simple garden soil and commercially available potting soil are not suitable for citrus plants. That's because these Mediterranean plants have a lot of demands. The ideal soil must provide the roots with the best possible water, oxygen and nutrients. At the same time, it must give the plant a stable hold.
A mix of different components
So that all wishes are fulfilled, soil for citrus plants is made up of various "building blocks". The market knows these building blocks and makes it easy for us by selling the ready-made mixture under the name citrus soil. However, he pays well for this. However, if you know the individual building blocks and their mixing ratio, you can easily mix citrus soil at home.
This is what you need for the best citrus soil
Quality soil for all citrus varieties mainly contains the following components:
- 1/3 compost
- 1/3 garden soil
- 1/3 mixture of sand and clay or loam.
The last third can be made up of equal parts sand and clay, but it doesn't have to be this way. The decisive point is the nature of the garden soil used. If it is very sandy, the clay or loam content should predominate and vice versa.
Addition of lime for the ideal pH value
Citrus plants like slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. If the garden soil used is too acidic, you can add some lime.
tips
If you want the soil to be even looser, then add coconut fibers. In the past, peat was used for this purpose. Since its decomposition is extremely harmful to the environment, we as responsible plant lovers should avoid it.
Wait until the earth is needed
You should always freshly mix soil for citrus plants. Therefore, wait until after hibernation, when repotting is due in spring. Mix only as much as you actually need.