Dwarf Orange Tree

One look at the fruit-laden dwarf orange tree would certainly leave the gardening enthusiasts want one for their home. Those who have a keen interest in gardening or love to keep exotic house plants will find the idea of bringing one home extremely attractive. This tropical house plant with green glossy leaves accompanied by the fragrance of orange blossoms is simply a visual treat. It is one of the popular dwarf citrus fruits. This tree is generally 2-3 feet in height, but it could grow up to 10 feet if not pruned. The ideal way to grow this tree would be to grow them in containers. Keep this decorative plant in the patio. Make sure it receives eight hours of sunshine daily. Provide it with the right conditions to grow and you might be able to see beautiful blooms and miniature oranges twice in a year.

Dwarf Orange Tree Care

Size of the Container
Since it is a plant that is kept in containers, you need to ensure that the size of the container is right. Make sure you plant it in a container keeping the depth of the root ball in mind. The diameter of the container should be several inches wider than the root ball. This tree has a shallow root system, so rather than stressing on the depth of the container, select a wider container as it will allow better growth. Also remember that these should be re-potted every two years.

Temperature
This tree needs warm temperature and sunshine to grow. It can grow even in a humid environment. Temperature ranging from 68-80°F will be just fine for this dwarf citrus tree. As I mentioned earlier, eight hours of sunshine daily would really help in the growth of the plant. So, make sure you keep it at a place where it gets ample sunshine. In winter season, make sure you keep it indoors at a place where the temperature is below 50°.

Soil
As far as the quality of the soil is concerned, make sure you check it using a soil-testing kit. Acidic soil will help it grow better. In case, the soil isn't acidic enough, the leaves might start becoming yellow. So, if you see yellow leaves replacing the glossy foliage, it's time to monitor the pH of the soil. You could take 1 quart water at room temperature and mix ½ tsp. magnesium sulfate to it to lower the pH of the soil.

Water
Water the tree when the soil surface seems dry. Don't go on a watering spree, just keep the soil moist else the roots of your plant might get damaged due to root rot. During summer, you could increase the number of times you water the citrus tree. You could keep the container in a drip tray as you water the tree. In case you see the tray getting filled up with water, drain it off and place it back.

Fertilizers
During the active growth cycle of the tree, fertilize it at least once a month. Use fertilizers with a high acid content as that will really help this citrus tree to grow. When the tree is in a dormant stage, you should apply a little fertilizer every three months.

Pruning
Also pay attention to the aspect of pruning. You must remove dead branches and twigs. Pruning off the dead branches and secondary shoots produced from the base will promote new growth. In case you see any disease affecting some parts of the plant, prune them. Protect your tree from mites and bugs.

So, let this tree beautify your garden or patio. Take good care of this tree and you will surely see small fragrant oranges on your tree.