When do kumquat trees bloom?
As a potted plant with both ornamental and edible value, the kumquat tree's evergreen leaves and white, fragrant flowers are deeply loved. Mastering its blooming cycle and special care techniques can effectively extend the blooming period and improve fruit quality.
Characteristics of the kumquat's blooming cycle throughout the year
Natural growth patterns
Kumquat trees bloom in four batches each year: the first round of flower buds sprout in June, forming milky white flower buds by mid-July; the second round blooms in late July after the end of the plum rain season; the third round reaches full bloom in August during the high temperature period; the last batch of flowers can last until late autumn in October.
Influence of environmental control
The blooming period can be adjusted by controlling the temperature: the flowers bloom most vigorously when the daytime temperature is maintained at 25-28°C and the nighttime temperature at 18-22°C. In the northern regions, greenhouse cultivation can achieve blooming across years, while in the southern regions, attention should be paid to the fact that nighttime temperatures below 15°C after September can inhibit the differentiation of flower buds.
Critical care techniques during the blooming period
Scientific water management
Adopt an immersive watering method: wait for the top 3cm of soil to dry, then slowly pour water along the pot edge until water seeps from the pot bottom. In case of continuous rainy weather, a rain shelter should be set up, and the pot should be tilted immediately to drain water if it accumulates for more than 2 hours.
Accurate nutrient supply
Apply a potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution (0.2% concentration) every 10 days, combined with buried application of decomposed bone meal. During the budding stage, additional boron and zinc micro-fertilizers should be applied, and a 0.1% borax solution can be sprayed on the leaves twice, with an interval of 7-10 days.
Optimization of plant morphology
After blooming, prune to retain 3-5 fruiting mother branches, thin out dense branches, and remove inner branches. Use the twist method to adjust the angle of the branches, maintaining a canopy light transmission rate of over 30% to promote even distribution of flower buds.
By adjusting temperature, managing water and fertilizer, and shaping the plant form, kumquat trees can bloom in multiple batches throughout the year. Regularly check the back of leaves to prevent spider mites, avoid using chemical pesticides during the blooming period, and biological pest control can ensure the safe development of flowers and fruits.