Overview
Citrofortunella microcarpa, also known as calamondin or Philippine lime, is a small citrus tree that belongs to the Rutaceae family. This plant is a hybrid of a mandarin orange and a kumquat and is native to the Philippines where it is commonly found and cultivated.
Appearance
Calamondin trees are small and compact, reaching a height of only six to ten feet. They have glossy, dark green leaves that are oval or lance-shaped and can grow up to four inches long. The flowers of a calamondin tree are small and white, either solitary or in small clusters. The fruit is a small, round orange that is about the size of a golf ball. The skin is thin and smooth, and the pulp is orange-colored.
Uses
Calamondin fruit is edible and has a tart taste that is similar to a sour orange. The fruit is often used in Filipino and Southeast Asian cuisine as a souring agent and flavor enhancer for dishes like adobo and sinigang. The fruit also makes a delicious marmalade or jelly, and the zest of the fruit can be used as a flavoring in pastries and other desserts.
In addition to being a food crop, calamondin trees are also grown as ornamentals. The tree's small size and attractive foliage make it a popular choice for use as a patio or indoor plant. The tree is also used in bonsai, and the fruit can be used for citrus-based essential oils and perfumes.
Cultivation
Calamondin trees thrive in tropical and subtropical climates and require well-drained soil and regular watering. The tree is self-fertile, meaning it can produce fruit without the need for another tree to pollinate it. Due to its small size and ease of cultivation, the calamondin tree can be grown in containers, making it an ideal choice for small spaces or for indoor cultivation.
Overall, Citrofortunella microcarpa is a versatile and useful plant that is valued for both its culinary and ornamental purposes.Light Requirements
Citrofortunella microcarpa, also known as calamondin or Philippine lime, thrives in areas with bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 hours every day. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. If the plant is grown indoors or in a shaded spot, it may not produce as much fruit as it would in full sun.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to warm, tropical regions, so it does best in warm temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (16°C to 29°C). The calamondin can tolerate occasional drops in temperature as low as 40°F (4°C), but prolonged exposure to colder temperatures can damage or kill the plant. Additionally, it is essential to protect the plant from frost during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
When it comes to soil, Citrofortunella microcarpa grows best in well-draining, slightly acidic soil. You can achieve this type of soil by mixing regular potting soil with sand and peat moss. The plant requires a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. However, it can tolerate soils that are slightly more alkaline, up to a pH of 7.5. Overly-compacted soil may stunt the growth of this plant, so ensure that the soil is loose enough to encourage water drainage and air circulation.
Regular watering is necessary to help prevent the soil from drying out. Daily watering may be necessary in hot weather, but be careful not to over-water, as it can cause the roots to rot. Optimal soil moisture should feel damp but not soaked. Fertilizer can help supplement the soil's nutrition, but do not over-fertilize, as it can cause leaf drop and burning.
Cultivation Methods
Citrofortunella microcarpa, commonly known as calamansi, grows best in full sunlight, but it can tolerate partial shade. It grows well in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. Calamansi can be propagated from seeds, cuttings and air layering. The best time to plant calamansi is at the beginning of the rainy season.
Watering Needs
The frequency of watering depends on the weather and soil type. It is vital to maintain the soil moist but not overly wet. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for the plant. During the hot and dry season, calamansi may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Citrofortunella microcarpa responds well to regular fertilization. Fertilization should be done during the active growth phase, which is during the rainy season. It would help if you used organic manure to enhance the soil's organic content and micronutrient availability. Balanced fertilizers, like NPK 20-20-20, can be used at a rate of 35-40 grams per plant every three months.
Pruning
Pruning is crucial for maintaining the plant's shape and size. Citrofortunella microcarpa can get bushy if not pruned, leading to fewer fruits. Pruning should be carried out after fruiting. It involves removing unwanted branches, deadwood, and water sprouts. It is recommended to carry out a moderate pruning annually to encourage fruiting and increase the plant's lifespan.
Propagation of Citrofortunella microcarpa
Citrofortunella microcarpa, also known as calamondin or Philippine lime, is a popular citrus plant that belongs to the family Rutaceae. It is native to the Philippines and has become popular worldwide due to its attractive foliage, fragrant blooms, and edible fruits. Propagation is an essential technique used to grow new plants from mature ones, and there are three main methods to propagate Citrofortunella microcarpa:
Seed propagation
Growing Citrofortunella microcarpa from seeds is an easy method of propagation that requires some basic horticultural skills. The seeds should be removed from mature fruits, cleaned, and then planted in well-draining soil in pots or seed trays. The soil should be kept moist, but not wet, and placed in a warm and brightly lit location. Germination can take several weeks to several months, and as the plants grow, they can be transplanted into larger pots or moved to the garden.
Cuttings propagation
Citrofortunella microcarpa can also be propagated from stem cuttings taken from mature, healthy plants. The cuttings should be taken in spring or summer and should be about four to six inches long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, and the cutting should be placed in a shaded location until roots have developed. Once the roots have developed, the young plant can be transplanted into a larger pot or moved to the garden.
Air layering propagation
Air layering is a propagation technique that involves wounding the stem of a mature plant, inducing the formation of roots, and then separating it from the parent plant. For Citrofortunella microcarpa, the best time for air layering is in spring or summer. Select a healthy stem, remove a ring of bark, and pack the area with wet sphagnum moss. The wound should be wrapped with plastic wrap, and the moss should be kept moist for several weeks to several months until roots have developed. Once the roots have matured, the newly formed plant can be cut off the parent plant and transplanted into a pot or moved to a new location in the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Citrofortunella microcarpa
Citrofortunella microcarpa, commonly known as calamondin or Philippine lime, is a hardy and easy-to-grow citrus fruit plant that is popular for its fragrant flowers and tart fruits. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can affect its growth and fruit production. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Citrofortunella microcarpa and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Citrus Canker - Citrus canker is a bacterial disease that causes yellowed halos around the plant's leaves and premature fruit drop. The disease is highly contagious, and infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent its spread. To prevent citrus canker, avoid overhead watering, sanitize tools and equipment, and maintain good garden sanitation.
Phytophthora Root Rot - Phytophthora root rot is a root disease that causes brown spots on the leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. The disease is caused by water molds, and it thrives in damp soil conditions. The best way to manage phytophthora root rot is to avoid waterlogging the soil, improve soil drainage, and maintain proper plant nutrition.
Anthracnose - Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves and fruits, defoliation, and poor fruit quality. The disease thrives in wet and humid conditions, and it spreads through spores. To manage anthracnose, avoid overhead watering, prune affected leaves and fruits, and apply appropriate fungicides.
Pests
Citrus Leafminer - Citrus leafminer is a tiny, yellowish moth that lays its eggs on the leaves of citrus plants. The larvae feed on the leaves, causing silvery tunnels and distorted growth. To manage citrus leafminer, prune affected leaves, apply horticultural oil, and use pheromone traps.
Scale Insects - Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of plants. They feed on the plant sap, causing yellowed leaves and twig dieback. To manage scale insects, prune affected leaves and branches, apply dormant oil, and use natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Fruit Flies - Fruit flies are small, reddish brown insects that are attracted to ripening fruits. They lay their eggs on the fruits, causing them to rot and drop prematurely. To manage fruit flies, remove affected fruits and dispose of them properly, cover the fruits with fine mesh netting, and practice good garden sanitation.
In conclusion, Citrofortunella microcarpa is a healthy and productive plant when appropriately taken care of. Regular monitoring of the plants, proper soil preparation and maintenance, and appropriate treatment of pests and diseases will ensure excellent fruit production of this plant.
