Kumquat translated from Chinese - golden orange . In ancient Chinese sources describe techniques which were exhibited on the table vases with kumquat fruit-bearing plants . Guests were treated to fruit straight from the tree and extolled horticultural skill host.
Sapling kumquat has a lot of advantages: different miniature and compact growth, actively develops a beautiful bush and dense crown with a few leaves and fragrant white flowers tinged with pink blossoms and bears fruit abundantly . Therefore, the kumquat is popular, happy grown growers in the house. Ornamental kumquat tree to preserve compactness , limit the size of its pot. Room for all varieties of crops are good kumquat and its hybrids . At home, the more likely you can find varieties of kumquats " Marum ", " Nagas ", " Fukushi ."
At room conditions kumquat tree grows up to 1.5 meters. The growth period begins in late April and early May and lasts 30-50 days, depending on conditions. Unlike the major citrus , kumquat has one adult and young plants - two periods of growth, an increase in the average is 6-10 cm Flowering kumquat in July and August, the bloom lasts 5-7 days. 2-3 weeks after the first flowering tree may bloom again. The flowers are hermaphrodite with kumquat , cross- pollination , but perhaps self-pollination . Flowering kumquat , like all citrus fruits grown in the indoor environment can and should be regulated. The fruits ripen in December and January.
Plant light-and water-loving . Prefers a sunny location . In the summer, it is necessary to keep the tree in diffused sunlight. In winter , on the contrary , it should create maximum natural light and access to direct sunlight , having a pot plant on the south window . Kumquat loves hot summers (25-28 degrees) and cool winter (15-18 degrees).
If you lower the temperature in winter is impossible to + 4.8 degrees, for normal development of plants need additional artificial lighting . Sapling enjoy summer outdoor maintenance . Kumquat should be protected from excessive temperature during the day and from cold at night.
During budding , flowering and fruit kumquat optimal air and soil temperature is 15-18 degrees.
Kumquat likes moist air . With a high dry air ( especially in winter) kumquat often shed its leaves , its attacking pests ( beetle , mite) . It is important to maintain an adequate and regular watering kumquat , preventing drying or moistening of the substrate.
Watering is best to use a soft, warm water . Like other citrus fruits , watering with cold water causes yellowing and defoliation . Should be regularly spray the plant , especially in the dry air and heat for heating , often wipe the leaves with a damp sponge to arrange a warm shower.
For fruiting need regular feeding , temperature about 20 degrees and the correct formation of the crown. All side shoots pruned in the spring , leaving each side branch no more than 3-4 young shoots.