When purchased and in the first few months in the home, the citrus plant was bursting with he alth. But now it seems to be suffering because its leaves are changing color and some have already fallen off. An iron deficiency could possibly be behind it
How can iron deficiency in citrus plants be treated?
An iron deficiency in citrus plants can be remedied by fertilizing with a specialiron fertilizeras well as a targetedsupply of calcium. Often behind the iron deficiency in citrus plants there is a fundamental lack of calcium, which causes poorer absorption of iron.
How does iron deficiency affect citrus plants?
An iron deficiency has aadverse effect on citrus plants, as iron, along with other nutrients such as potassium, nitrogen and phosphorus, is an essential element for he althy growth. If citrus plants lack iron, they become weaker and are more prone to disease and pest infestation.
How can you recognize a nutrient deficiency in citrus plants?
A nutrient deficiency in citrus plants becomes noticeable through yellowish leaves that eventuallyfall off. This is usually a disease called chlorosis. For many years it was assumed that the yellowish leaves on citrus plants were caused by a lack of iron. But it has now been discovered that this is often due to a calcium deficiency.
When does iron deficiency occur in citrus plants?
Iron deficiency in citrus plants often occurs when these plants are fundamentallydeficientwithcalcium. Citrus plants urgently need this nutrient in order to be able to easily absorb other nutrients such as iron.
How can iron deficiency in citrus plants be prevented?
You can prevent iron deficiency by supplying the citrus plants with a fertilizer tailored to their needs. Special citrus fertilizers are available commercially. In addition, it is important to ensure a goodsupplyofCalcium, otherwise iron is difficult to absorb. Water your citrus plants with tap water and give them algae lime every now and then.
How is iron deficiency treated in citrus plants?
If your citrus plant actually has an iron deficiency, you can provide it with aniron fertilizer. Citrus plant fertilizers also usually contain iron and can be added either as a liquid fertilizer to the irrigation water or as a long-term fertilizer.
When should the citrus plant be fertilized?
Fertilize your citrus plant about onceweeklyfrom Aprilanduntilno later thanSeptember. After that, citrus plants in this country usually stop growing and should no longer be fertilized.
How do I determine a calcium deficiency in citrus plants?
To rule out a calcium deficiency, you should measure thepH valueof the soil of your citrus plantThis should be alkaline and not acidic area. An acidic soil indicates a calcium deficiency. This can result in an iron deficiency despite an apparently good supply of fertilizer.
Tip
A lot doesn't always help a lot
Be careful not to over-fertilize your citrus plants. Even if a nutrient deficiency has already become clearly noticeable, too much fertilizer at once can damage and even burn the roots. Therefore, apply the fertilizer in measured doses and at regular intervals.
