Calamansi (Calamondin)
Citrus × microcarpa
Compact citrus perfect for containers; prolific fruiter in the tropics.
🌞 Light & Temperature
Light: Full sun (6–8 h); very bright light if indoors
Temperature: 22–32°C optimal
🪴 Pot & Soil
Pot: 25–40 L pot with citrus soil; full sun balcony preferred.
Soil Mix: Well-draining citrus mix: 40% loam, 30% compost, 20% coco coir, 10% perlite; pH 6–6.5
💧 Watering
Schedule: Dry season: 2–3x/week; Rainy season: 1–2x/week if no rain
Amount: 2–3 L per watering for 30 L pot
Allow top 3 cm to dry; consistent moisture improves fruit set.
🧪 Fertilizing
Type: Citrus fertilizer with micronutrients (Fe, Mg, Zn) or organic fruiting blend
Frequency: Every 4 weeks; foliar micronutrients every 6–8 weeks
Dosage: 30–50 g/month for 25–40 L pot; add dolomite if leaves yellow between veins
🍓 Fruiting & Harvest
Start: 6–12 months for grafted plants
Seasonality: Year-round with peaks after dry spells
Duration: Fruits ripen 90–120 days after flowering
Harvest Indicators: Fruit turns orange; peels easily; aromatic oils on skin
Tips: Snip with scissors to avoid tearing spurs; harvest frequently to encourage bloom.
🌱 Propagation
Grafted plants recommended; air-layering also works.
🐛 Pests & Diseases
- Citrus leaf miner: Prune damaged tips; avoid high-N flushes; pheromone traps.
- Scale insects: Brush off; apply white oil 1–2% every 2 weeks until clear.
🌦️ Seasonal Notes (Malaysia)
Shelter from pounding rain to protect flowers; hand-shake to aid pollination.
📝 Planting Notes
Use clay pot for stability; add slow-release fertilizer at planting.
💡 Extra Care Tips
- Light prune after flushes to keep compact
- Avoid wetting foliage at night during monsoon
Note
Schedules are guidelines—adjust for your microclimate, pot size, and weather. During heavy monsoon rain, reduce watering and improve drainage.