Calamondin care: watering, light and repotting
Also called calamondin orange, citrus madurensis, citrofortunella · Citrus × microcarpa · Rutaceae family
8 d in winter
How often to water the calamondin?
Allow about 4 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 8 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
The citrus best suited to indoors. It needs as much sun as possible, citrus fertiliser and, if possible, a cool winter (50–59 °F, 10–15 °C).
What light does it need?
The calamondin loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in March, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from March to September, feeding every 2 weeks is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 2–4 ft (60 cm–1.2 m).
Toxic to cats and dogs. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
Leaf drop in winter
Cause: Room too warm and too dark. What to do: Move it somewhere cool, right next to a window.
Yellow leaves with green veins
Cause: Chlorosis from hard water. What to do: Water with rainwater and use a citrus fertiliser.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the calamondin?
About every 4 days in spring and summer, and every 8 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the calamondin?
The calamondin loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Should you mist the calamondin?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the calamondin?
Every 2 years, ideally in March, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the calamondin safe?
The calamondin is toxic to cats and dogs. Keep the plant out of their reach and, if they eat some, call a vet.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Fairly: the calamondin needs a little attention, mostly with watering and light. Nothing complicated with a reminder at the right time.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.