Caring for Our Plants

Feb 2009

     1. There is not much that can be done at this time of year other than tidying up if the ground is not frozen or covered in snow !

Tips for March / April

1. This time of year is an ideal time for planting either bare root or pot grown plants, enabling them to root into surrounding soil before the drier summer months

2. Quite a lot of people lose their patio plants at this time of year because it hasn't rained much, so make sure to check that they are not becoming too dry

3. Now is an ideal time to put down mulch or bark to prevent weeds growing and conserve moisture for the warmer months

Citrus Trees

Citrus trees grow best in a warm sunny conservatory, windowsill or greenhouse with a minimum temperature of 4ºC (38ºF), ensure as much ventilation as reasonable given the weather conditions. Citrus trees will thrive outside in a sunny sheltered position, during warm summer weather (May to November). Keep in a shady spot to start with and gradually move into the sun, over the course of a week if weather very warm. In summer months you may need to water daily in hot weather, it will require only fortnightly watering during cool winter months. Check the surface of the compost, water if dry water but don’t allow it to become soggy.

In a dry atmosphere leaves may dry out and drop, stand plant in a saucer with gravel and water. Keep away from direct sources of heat, or directly in front of south facing windows. Feed during spring/summer with citrus or seaweed-based fertiliser to promote fruit growth.

Citrus do not like high levels of salt, which can build up in compost from the fertiliser. Take outside twice a year and drench with lots of clean water to prevent salt build up.

Citrus are very rewarding plants, they have small scented white flowers in spring, followed by the fruit, which will grow over six months until they ripen.

Prune/trim just as new growth starts in spring, as desired to keep a pleasing shape/encourage a bushy plant.