Citrus plants belong in the pot in this country. This must grow together with the plant, for which we are responsible. The second aspect is the supply of fresh soil. It is repotted as soon as the plant needs it. This is what needs to be recognized, and of course how!
When and how do you properly repot citrus plants?
Citrus plants should be repotted in spring (February or March), ideally every two years. Choose a clay pot that is 2 cm larger in diameter, fill with a drainage layer and suitable soil. Carefully remove the plant from the old pot, loosen the roots and place it in the new pot. Add fresh soil and water well.
Time for repotting
Citrus plants in this country ideally overwinter in cool winter quarters, during which their growth is largely dormant. In the spring, when the new growing season begins, they should be repotted if necessary. It usually happens in February or March.
The roots of all citrus species are sensitive. These Mediterranean plants also grow comparatively slowly. That's why they are usually only repotted every two years when the roots stick out of the pot holes. We also recommend taking a closer look at the soil of newly purchased citrus plants and, if necessary, repotting the plant in more suitable soil.
Pot type and appropriate size
Citrus plants are often planted in clay pots because they are particularly decorative. But a clay pot is also optimal from other points of view:
- it offers high stability
- serves as a buffer when there is a high water and s alt content
- the roots are better ventilated due to the fine pores
When repotting, always choose a new pot whose diameter at the edge is approx. 2 cm larger than the old pot. If the plant lives in a “giant pot” at some point, all that remains is to replace the soil
Tip
The clay pot for a citrus plant should have a large drainage hole in the middle so that no waterlogging can form inside. So-called “clay feet” are also available in stores on which you can place the pot.
Suitable soil for citrus plants
The quality of the soil has a decisive influence on the growth of the plant. Special soil for citrus plants is available commercially. It is permeable to water and structurally stable, and its nutrient composition meets all requirements.
You can also mix soil for citrus plants yourself and save money, especially if you have a larger citrus culture. Enrich good garden soil with quartz sand and broken gravel. For the lower third of the pot you will also need gravel for a drainage layer.
Tip
Purchased citrus soil is already enriched with nutrients. That's why you should stop fertilizing for about 6 weeks after repotting.
How to Repot a Citrus Plant
If your citrus plant is very large, you should get someone else to help you repot it. This minimizes the risk of accidentally breaking a few branches. Then proceed step by step.
- First fill the drainage material into the new pot.
- Add some soil.
- Put the pot down with a jerk so that the soil settles better.
- Get the citrus plant out of the old pot.
- Carefully shake off the old soil and loosen the roots a little.
- Place the citrus plant in the middle of the new pot.
- Place fresh soil around it, which you compact slightly with your hand.
- Water the citrus plant well.
