Citrus mitis - Calamondin - House Orange
The Citrus mitis, also known as Calamondin or Calamansi, is a dwarf citrus fruit that is popular as a houseplant due to its edible fruits and pleasant fragrance. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
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Light: Calamondins need plenty of light to thrive. Place your plant in a very bright location where it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. A south-facing window is usually ideal for this. If such light is not available, artificial lighting with grow lights can be used.
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Temperature: Calamondins prefer warm temperatures. Keep your plant in a location where the temperature is consistently above 10°C (50°F). They do not tolerate cold temperatures well.
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Watering: Water your Calamondin regularly, ensuring the soil remains slightly moist. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings. Be careful not to leave the plant in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
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Humidity: Calamondins like moderate ambient humidity. If your indoor air is very dry, consider placing a saucer filled with water near the plant or using a humidifier.
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Fertilization: During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize your Calamondin approximately once a month with a balanced indoor plant fertilizer. Reduce fertilization in autumn and winter when the plant goes dormant.
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Pruning: You can prune the plant to encourage more compact growth, to remove dead or diseased branches, and to maintain an attractive shape.
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Pollination: If you want your Calamondin to bear fruit, you can manually pollinate the flowers using a soft brush to transfer pollen between them.
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Harvesting: Calamondin fruits are edible and have a sweet-sour taste. You can harvest them when they are fully ripe. They can be used to make jams, desserts, or to flavor dishes.
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Common Problems: Monitor for pests such as aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites. Treat them quickly if you spot them. Calamondins can also be susceptible to diseases such as root rot, so ensure the soil is well-draining.

