How to Care for Calamansi Plant in a Pot

Calamansi is a small citrus fruit that is native to Southeast Asia. It is also known as calamondin, Philippine lime, or Panama orange. It is a popular fruit in the Philippines and is used in many dishes and drinks. If you want to grow calamansi in your home, you can easily do it by planting it in a pot. In this article, we will share some tips on how to care for calamansi plant in a pot.

Choose the Right Pot

When planting calamansi in a pot, it is important to choose the right size of the pot. A pot that is too small will not have enough space for the roots to grow, while a pot that is too big can cause the soil to retain too much water. Ideally, choose a pot that is at least 10 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep. The pot should also have drainage holes to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged.

Select the Right Soil

The soil that you use for planting calamansi should be well-draining, slightly acidic, and rich in organic matter. You can make your own potting mix by combining equal parts of sand, peat moss, and perlite. Alternatively, you can purchase a ready-made potting mix that is specifically formulated for acidic-loving plants, such as citrus trees.

Provide Adequate Sunlight

Calamansi requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If you are growing it indoors, place the pot near a sunny window. If you are growing it outdoors, choose a spot that receives full sun but is also protected from strong winds. If you live in a hot climate, provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent the leaves from getting sunburned.

Water the Plant Regularly

Calamansi requires regular watering, especially during the hot, dry months. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can cause the roots to rot. To prevent waterlogging, make sure that the pot has drainage holes and that the soil is well-draining.

Fertilize the Plant

Calamansi requires regular fertilization to thrive. Use a citrus tree fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize the plant during the dormant season (fall and winter).

Prune the Plant

Regular pruning will help keep the calamansi plant healthy and productive. Prune the plant in the spring, just before the new growth begins. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Also, remove any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Prune the plant to maintain a desired shape and size.

Conclusion

Caring for a calamansi plant in a pot requires some effort, but the rewards are worth it. With the right pot, soil, sunlight, water, fertilizer, and pruning, your calamansi plant will thrive and produce delicious fruit. Follow the tips in this article, and you will be on your way to growing your own calamansi plant in a pot.