Calamondin Orange

This tiny beauty doesn't grow above 2 ft. high. The tree is grafted into a root stalk, kind of like a lily, so be sure and buy an established plant should you fall in love.

The Calamondin (Citrus mitis) is very popular, grows in a sunny window in winter, then set in sun out-doors in summer. Toughen you citrus by easing it outside gradually. Set it first where it gets a little east (or morning sun) a few hours each day for a week. Expose to more sun gradually.

Planting seeds from any citrus fruits will result in attractive green foliage, but flowers and fruits may not form. Start the seed in a a small pot and shift it to progressively lager ones as soon as roots fill the container.

Hint: Citrus does best in slightly acid soil. Use soil mixture containing an acid peat. Once a month, apply 1/2 teaspoon of vinegar mixed ina a quart of water. Also use a slow release plant food ( I use Miracle Grow) to give citrus the moderate fertility it needs.

Lack of pollination indoors results in no fruiting. If you want your tree to bear fruit, shake blossoming plant slightly each day to distribute the pollen, or use a camel hair brush to transfer ripe pollen to sticky surface of stigmas in centers of blooms.

Good Luck,
Grandma