Citrus japonica aka Kumquat
Taxonomy
Common names
Kumquat, Meiwa Kumquat, Cherry Orange, Round Kumquat, Swingle Round KumquatHow to care for Kumquat
Difficulty
Caring for Kumquat can be demanding, requiring a deep understanding of its unique needs and a commitment to provide optimal care.
Water
Kumquat should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Kumquat loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Kumquat thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Cherry Orange.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it's common for Kumquat to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.
Humidity
No additional humidity is required for the Kumquat. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.
Fertilizer
The growth rate of Kumquat is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.
Region of origin
Kumquat’s native range is Southeast Asia and Australia.
More info:
Wikipedia