How to Plant a Calamansi Tree

Calamansi is a small citrus fruit native to the Philippines that is commonly used for cooking, beverages, and home remedies. If you're a fan of this fruit and want to have a source of fresh calamansi all year round, consider planting a calamansi tree in your garden. Here's how.

Choose the Right Site

Before planting your calamansi tree, choose a site that provides the right growing conditions. Calamansi trees prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade. The soil should be well-draining, fertile, and rich in organic matter. If the soil in your chosen site is not ideal, you can improve it by adding compost or aged manure.

Prepare the Planting Hole

Once you've chosen the site, prepare the planting hole. Dig a hole that is two to three times wider than the root ball of your calamansi tree. The depth of the hole should be the same as the height of the root ball. Mix the soil that you've removed from the hole with compost or aged manure to create a nutrient-rich planting mix.

Plant the Tree

To plant the calamansi tree, gently remove it from its container and place it in the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil. Fill in the hole with the planting mix and press the soil down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the tree thoroughly to settle the soil and remove any air pockets that may remain.

Care for the Tree

After planting the tree, care for it to ensure its growth and health. Water the tree regularly, especially during dry weather. Calamansi trees need a lot of water when they are young, but once they are established, they can tolerate drought. Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season. Prune the tree to shape it and remove any dead or damaged branches.

Harvest the Fruit

The fruit of the calamansi tree ripens in about 6 to 8 months after planting. You'll know that the fruit is ready to harvest when it turns yellow-orange and feels slightly soft to the touch. To harvest the fruit, twist and pull it gently from the branch. Calamansi fruit can be used fresh or preserved by freezing or canning.

Conclusion

Planting a calamansi tree is a great way to have a source of fresh fruit all year round. Follow the steps outlined above, and you'll be on your way to enjoying the tangy, flavorful fruit of the calamansi tree in no time.