How many years does a potted orange tree generally take to bear fruit?
The orange tree is evergreen through all four seasons, with dense branches and leaves and a neat form. In spring the whole tree is covered in fragrant blossoms, and in autumn and winter it hangs heavy with yellow fruit; the intermingling of yellow and green is extremely beautiful, and many households grow them in pots. So, how many years does a potted orange tree take to bear fruit?
1. How many years does a potted orange tree take to bear fruit?
A potted orange tree can generally bloom and bear fruit in 2-3 years. The blooming and fruiting of a fruit tree is closely related to factors such as temperature, sunlight, water and soil.
2. How to care for a potted orange tree
1. Soil
The potting soil suitable for growing an orange tree is generally neutral (pH 4.5-7.5), humus-rich sandy loam or sandy soil. You can buy it at a flower shop or a flower and bird market, or mix it yourself: take 4 parts of matured garden soil, 2 parts of river sand and 1 part of plant ash, mix them thoroughly and evenly, then crush fine and sieve before use.
2. Flower pot
Choose a round pot with good drainage and air permeability, spread a 5 cm thick layer of coarse sand on the bottom of the pot, line the inner wall with a layer of new tiles, then fill in soil and plant the tree.
3. Watering
During the growing season, water before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. On sunny summer days, water once a day; if the soil is on the dry side, water once more the same day. In spring and autumn, water once a day; in early spring and late autumn, water once every 2-5 days depending on the moisture condition of the potting soil; in winter, control watering. The water temperature is best kept consistent with the soil temperature, and the pH value is generally best at 6.5-7.
4. Fertilizing
Fertilize a potted orange tree with light applications given frequently, according to the tree, the weather and the soil. Potted trees that are highly tolerant of fertilizer, grow a lot and bear much fruit should be fertilized more; otherwise, fertilize less. Do not fertilize during the dormant period. If the potting soil is low in nutrients or the tree has been in the same pot for a long time, fertilize more; if the potting soil is high in nutrients, fertilize less.
5. Pruning and shaping
According to the variety of orange tree planted, prune it into shapes such as the natural round-headed form, pagoda form, single-branch cliff form, double-branch antler form, three-branch cup form, weeping willow form and dragon-curve form. In addition, the measures for promoting flowering and keeping the tree dwarf, and for shaping by pruning, mainly include bud rubbing, pinching, branch bending, branch twisting, ring girdling, heading back, renewal and branch pulling, and by opening up the angle of the branches and thinning out water sprouts, densely growing branches and ineffective branches to enhance light exposure, an ideal tree shape can be created.
6. Control of pests and diseased branches
Watch out for attacks by pests and diseases such as foot rot, mites, scale insects and aphids. You can spray pesticides in advance for prevention and control, and promptly prune away dead and diseased branches and leaves.
The orange tree likes light and tolerates drought; water it after the soil has dried out. It is best placed in a bright spot on the balcony. Do not water while the soil is still moist. It fears waterlogging and cold; in winter, when the temperature is low, take care to keep it warm. It likes fertilizer; add some nutrient solution when watering. It likes humidity; frequently spraying the leaves with monopotassium phosphate is good and can promote blooming and fruiting.