I have some etrog (citrus... - Ask Extension
I have some etrog (citrus) trees that are blooming. They reside on my deck during the summer and are now under a 4 tube 4ft length grow light. There...
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I have some etrog (citrus... #162080
Asked December 10, 2013, 4:19 PM EST
I have some etrog (citrus) trees that are blooming. They reside on my deck during the summer and are now under a 4 tube 4ft length grow light. There are at least 50 buds. When they flower, they do not set any fruit. I have tried to pollinate them by using a small match stick. But after flowering , they, so far, all fall off the tree. Would a fruit set spray help? Or any other suggestions?
Prince George's County Maryland
Expert Response
Etrog trees are self fruitful (don't need a pollinator.) You can try to help it pollinate better by using a cotton swab or paintbrush.
While it needs some cold weather to initiate blooming, be sure to maintain a fairly even temperature at this time of at least 50-55. They are more cold sensitive than other citrus. Also keep the soil moisture even by regular watering, not allowing it to get too dry between waterings. Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering but no more when it is in flower.
Normally, you would not fertilize in winter if the plant was resting, but because it is producing flowers you should fertilize the same as you would in the summer.
We don't think the fruit set spray should be necessary.
ECN
While it needs some cold weather to initiate blooming, be sure to maintain a fairly even temperature at this time of at least 50-55. They are more cold sensitive than other citrus. Also keep the soil moisture even by regular watering, not allowing it to get too dry between waterings. Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering but no more when it is in flower.
Normally, you would not fertilize in winter if the plant was resting, but because it is producing flowers you should fertilize the same as you would in the summer.
We don't think the fruit set spray should be necessary.
ECN
Thanks, Ora. I have 4 smalletrogim that have set so far with lots more bloom that keep coming.
Congratulations on your persistence and adventurousness.
ECN
ECN
