Hi. I bought this Key Lime tree on January 29th. I went to my local nursery and bought the soil and potted it in a 5 gallon pot. Since then I have lost about 15 leaves on it so I’m wondering if that is natural during the blooming or I’m not doing something right. I watered it when I received it and have watered it once since. I know they don’t like a lot of water so I gave it about 4 cups of water. The tree is still growing new buds and I see one clump of new leaves coming. However, it seems like more are turning yellow or are starting to roll up. As you can tell by the photos I also put it by the door so it gets sunlight during the day. (Maybe more sunlight?) Inside where the tree is the temp is 65 so I don’t believe it’s too cold. Any help would be most appreciated. THANKS!!!
the water must absolutely drain...roots of these trees will rot if too wet...what you could do is take the bottom off put the plant in the shower or outside...give it a good watering and a few minutes later when you know the water has finished dripping from the bottom put it back in its dish...what type of soil did you transplant with..?
"I know they don’t like a lot of water so I gave it about 4 cups of water." There is a danger in underwatering. Remember that when watering, the soil must have dried out somewhat, but when you do water it must be THOROUGHLY. Water must reach every root or the roots will fail and die. When you water, water so that water comes out of the bottom of the pot. I then leave it a couple of mins and do the same again. This ensures all the roots get a good drink. The air temp may be 65F, but the soil temp will be about 10F lower than that, and if it sits on the floor it will be even cooler. I would raise it off the floor and make it warmer so the roots function properly. They are at risk of being too cold and not working efficiently. As Rudell said, the soil must be fast draining. Can you explain the mix? And don't forget, citrus eat loads, so they need regular fertilizing! If the leaves dropping off are older ones I wouldn't worry. They only live for around 18 months, then the plant will suck nitrogen out of it (causing yellowing) to distribute elsewhere and the leaf will drop. So, if it is an old leaf, or leaves, don't worry. The reasons for leaf drop will be either cold roots, not enough light, not enough water, age, nutrient deficiency. I would wait for a pro to show up and lend a hand - Millet knows quite a lot on deficiencies I think.
The nursery gave me the same soil they use when they receieve citrus plants. Fertilome. Also they told we not to use plant food until about a month has passed. They gave me 20-20-20 to use. So I'm wondering if I should start feeding it or still wait.
