Miniature orange tree problems
c.k.16
Posts: 7
Hi all.
I got a miniature orange tree from a friend which has been fine all summer. I re-potted it a few weeks ago and it is now really unhappy. I didn't radically change what it's planted in or the pot size so I don't understand why. It's leaves have developed pale spots and some are turning brown at the edges. Several leaves have now started to drop off (see pictures). It's currently on a sunny windowsill in my kitchen. Any thoughts? - is this simple over-watering from when I re-potted it or something else and is there anything I can do? I don't want to loose it!
Thanks
0
Posts
Are they the Calamondin plant? Miniature oranges that are very sour. A cross between a Mandarin and Kumquat. The plant doesn't look too bad. A few yellow spots here and there is unlikely an issue.
I think the soil does look a bit too spongey and rich. Add more grit to avoid soil getting too clogged up. You can also give the leaves a wipe to avoid any build up of dust and possible mites/scale insects.
They are unlikely to be putting on any growth right now and watering should be kept to a minimum. Only water when you feel the top inch of soil is bone dry. Once temperatures are unlikely to be frosty, you should be keeping them outside in semi-shade to acclimatise, then to full sun. They will not do too well grown indoors all year round. If you live in a mild area, they can stay outdoors on a southerly aspect against a warm wall.
Last edited: 05 November 2017 22:39:00
Many thanks all and apologies for the delay in replying. Borderline, I think it is a Calamondin plant, thank you. The tree seems a bit happier now it has dried out but is still dropping leaves. I wonder if it could be a mineral deficiency as I haven't fed it since I got it - is it worth trying a light feed? I live in Macnhester and the weathers been quite bad so I'm reluctant to put it outside until spring (it's lived inside so far but in our conservatory so its very light). Thank you for everyone's help
You haven't got it too close to a radiator have you?
As long as the conservatory doesn't get too hot inside when the sun is out. Ideally, in the cooler months, keep it somewhere quite cool, and don't worry about not watering it much. They can drop leaves when stressed, but once in ideal conditions, the leaves can grow back again. If it's still similar to your original photo, but minus a few more leaves, I would hold out until spring to feed. But, if the leaves are very pale, then you can feed it with something from the garden centre for acid loving plants, but don't over do it.