Citrus plants need to put their roots in soil that has special properties. That's why special citrus soil is available in stores. This may stand out with its quality, but it is not cheap in price. For anyone who cultivates a lot of citrus plants, it is worth mixing citrus soil yourself.
How do you mix soil for citrus plants yourself?
To mix citrus soil yourself, use 1/3 compost, 1/3 garden soil and 1/3 mixture of sand and clay or loam. Make sure the pH is slightly acidic between 5.5 and 6.5 and add lime if necessary. Coconut fiber can provide additional looseness.
These properties make good citrus soil
Simple garden soil and commercial potting soil are not suitable for citrus plants. This is because these Mediterranean plants have a lot of demands. The ideal soil must optimally supply the roots with water, oxygen and nutrients. At the same time, it must give the plant a stable hold.
A mix of different ingredients
So that all wishes are fulfilled, soil for citrus plants is made up of different “building blocks”. The market knows these building blocks and makes it easy for us by selling the mixture ready-made under the name citrus soil. However, he pays well for this. However, if you know the individual building blocks and their mixing ratio, you can easily mix citrus soil at home.
This is what you need for the best citrus soil
Quality soil for all types of citrus mainly contains the following components:
- 1/3 compost
- 1/3 garden soil
- 1/3 Mixture of sand and clay or loam.
The last third can be made up of equal proportions of sand and clay, but it doesn't have to be that way. The crucial point is the nature of the garden soil used. If it is very sandy, the clay or loam content should predominate and vice versa.
Addition of lime for the ideal pH value
Citrus plants like only slightly acidic soil with a pH value between 5.5 and 6.5. If the garden soil used is too acidic, you can add a little lime.
Tip
If you would like the soil to be even looser, then add additional coconut fiber (€14.00 on Amazon). Peat was previously used for this purpose. Since its degradation is extremely damaging to the environment, we as responsible plant lovers should avoid it.
Wait until the earth is needed
You should always mix soil for citrus plants fresh. Therefore, wait until after the winter when you need to repot in the spring. Always mix only as much as you actually need.
