You can find these nutrients at Home Depot. You can also go to Garden Exchange in old Hilo, and they will be more helpful there. You can also go to the Farm Co-op in Hilo and support them and ask for advice (808 969 7474). To save money you can buy bulk 50 pound bags of organic nutrients from BEI
and Nutria. For a great mineral source we have a 34 mineral mix available, so call me for info at 808 425 0474 Rick. We also encourage people to create a balanced soil using our
Hawaiian Bokashi Inoculant that will supply your trees and vegetables with all they need.
Caring for young citrus trees like lemons and limes requires attention to their nutritional and environmental needs. Here’s a detailed guide:
1.Soil pH:
Citrus trees prefer slightly acidic soil. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal. However, they can tolerate a range from 5.5 to 7.5. It’s a good idea to test the soil pH periodically and amend it if needed.
2. Macronutrients:
Citrus trees need the primary macronutrients in larger quantities:
- Nitrogen (N): Promotes leafy, vegetative growth. A deficiency can lead to yellowing of leaves (chlorosis).
- Phosphorus (P): Supports root development and flowering. A deficiency can cause darkening of the leaves.
- Potassium (K): Helps with fruit quality, disease resistance, and overall plant vigor. A deficiency might cause older leaves to have yellow or brown tips and edges.
3. Secondary Nutrients:
- Calcium (Ca): Important for root and leaf development. A deficiency can cause leaf tips to die back.
- Magnesium (Mg): Important for photosynthesis as it’s a core component of the chlorophyll molecule. A deficiency can lead to leaf chlorosis or reddening.
- Sulfur (S): Important for overall plant health and vigor. A deficiency can cause young leaves to turn pale.
4. Micronutrients/Trace Elements:
Even though these are needed in smaller quantities, they are crucial for citrus tree health:
- Iron (Fe): Deficiency causes yellowing between the leaf veins on young leaves.
- Manganese (Mn): A deficiency can cause young leaves to develop a mottled appearance.
- Zinc (Zn): Crucial for enzyme functions. A deficiency can result in smaller leaves and stunted growth.
- Copper (Cu): Important for various plant enzymes. A deficiency might result in twisted leaf shapes.
- Boron (B): Important for fruit and seed development. A deficiency can cause fruit drop and poor fruit set.
- Molybdenum (Mo): Helps with nitrogen use in the plant. A deficiency can lead to cupping of the leaves.
5. Watering:
Young citrus trees need consistently moist (but not soggy) soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, so ensure good drainage (use our black cinder and Top Soil mix). Use a deep watering technique to encourage deep root growth.
6. Mulching:
Mulching around the base of the tree can help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Be sure not to pile mulch against the tree trunk as it can retain moisture and invite pests.
7. Fertilizing:
During their first year, citrus trees benefit from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio like 14-14-14, or one specifically formulated for citrus. In addition, micronutrients can be supplied through foliar sprays or specific citrus micronutrient blends. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Pest and Disease Management:
Regularly inspect your tree for signs of pests or diseases. Common pests for citrus include aphids, citrus leaf miners, and spider mites. Common diseases include citrus canker and root rot. Early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial.
9. Pruning:
During the first year, minimal pruning is needed. Remove any dead or damaged branches and any suckers that grow from the base.
In summary, a successful citrus tree gardener needs to be attentive to the tree’s needs, ensuring the right balance of nutrients, proper watering, and proactive management of potential pests and diseases.