The kumquat or Asian dwarf orange is ideal as an ornamental tree or houseplant and, with good care and sufficient fertilization, even produces edible fruit. However, in European latitudes it does not reach its original size of up to five meters.
How do you care for a kumquat?
Good kumquat care includes regular watering without waterlogging, special citrus fertilizer, a warm and sunny spot in summer, frost-free overwintering and, if necessary, pruning. If cared for properly, the plant produces edible fruits.
Like other citrus plants, the kumquat doesn't like drafts or cold winds. In summer it can be kept outside as a potted plant on the balcony or terrace. She likes it warm and sunny. However, it is not frost hardy and therefore requires suitable winter quarters.
The most important care tips in brief:
- moderate to high water requirements
- regular fertilization
- very sensitive to limescale
- warmth-loving
- bears edible fruit if cared for properly
Watering a kumquat
The kumquat is one of the thirsty plants and should be watered abundantly in spring and summer. Make sure you regularly add special fertilizer for citrus plants (€6.00 on Amazon). This supports flowering and, above all, fruit formation in later years.
The root ball must never dry out completely. If the pH value of the irrigation water is too high, your kumquat can die. Be sure to avoid waterlogging, otherwise the roots of your kumquat tree will rot. That's why a drainage layer in the plant pot is absolutely necessary so that excess irrigation water can drain away easily.
Repotting a Kumquat
Repotting a kumquat is only necessary if the plant pot becomes too small, otherwise occasional replacement of the potting soil is sufficient. It is best to do this at the beginning of the growing season in spring. Planting in the garden is not recommended as the kumquat is not frost hardy.
The kumquat in winter
The kumquat can even tolerate light frost for a short time. However, it is better to overwinter frost-free, cool and bright. Because the roots must never freeze. However, temperatures just above the frost line are sufficient. Fertilization is not necessary during winter and watering can be reduced. Overwintering in a greenhouse or winter garden is ideal.
The diseases of a kumquat
As an exotic plant, the kumquat is unfortunately susceptible to diseases and pests. Red spiders and scale insects are particularly annoying. Check your kumquat regularly for pests, wash off affected parts of the plant and remove the pests. However, the best protection is correct care, as weakened plants are particularly vulnerable.
Do you have to prune a kumquat tree?
A kumquat tree should be pruned regularly, especially if space is limited. Although it does not grow as quickly in cooler areas as in Asia, it can reach a considerable size. The best time for pruning is spring after the winter break. Pruning also promotes the formation of a beautiful crown.
Tips & Tricks
Good care may be rewarded with sweet and sour fruits. When they give in under finger pressure and have a strong orange color, they are ready to harvest.
