kumquat growth stages

Young plants are distinguished by their rapid growth, thorns, and inability to flower. However, the kumquat tree does not have true thorns. The young tree focuses its energy on vegetative development at this time to support the weight of the fruit during the fruiting stage.

Buds appear on the kumquat tree when it reaches maturity. The closed buds enlarge and open after a few days. Small white flowers can be found inside the leaves singly or in groups.

Kumquat: origin and characteristics

In the middle of the 19th century, an English botanist named Robert Fortune brought this cute citrus species from Asia to Europe. The scientific name for kumquat, Fortunella, was derived from his surname. However, like all citrus fruits, it has more than one name and Citrus japonica is another synonym for this plant. The small orange fruits of the kumquat are what make it so exciting, as they are very aesthetically pleasing and bursting with flavor. They have a slightly sour taste like an orange, but unlike oranges, there is no need to peel them, as the skin and seeds of the kumquat fruit are all edible.

In the wild, kumquat trees grow up to five meters high, but as ornamental plants, they usually do not grow taller than one and a half meters. They look like other citrus trees with their oval, evergreen leaves. The number of thorns varies from tree to tree. With the right care, the large fragrant flowers of the kumquat appear for two to three weeks around July or August. The small orange kumquat fruits later develop from these flowers.

Planting a Kumquat Tree

Growing a kumquat tree is very easy. Here’s a breakdown of when, where, and how to plant this attractive evergreen tree.

When to Plant

Sun Requirements for Growing Kumquats

Full sun is important for a healthy kumquat tree. Find a location in the garden where the kumquat tree will receive full sun for 6-8 hours or more per day. They also prefer to stand protected from the wind.

A newly planted kumquat tree needs more regular watering. Depending on your climate, every second or third day for the first few weeks will help establish the tree.

Cultivating Kumquats from seeds

Take a wet paper towel and spread the healthy seeds evenly spaced over half of the towel. Fold another half of the paper towel so the seeds are covered, and let them soak the seeds in the paper towel. The seeds germinate, which usually takes four weeks. Keep this towel in a sealed airtight bag.

Remove the air from the bag and seal it as the air in the bag will dry out the paper towel and seeds and slow down the germination process. Use a seedling mat or heater to keep it warm. The seeds do not need to be exposed to direct sunlight at this time, but they do need warmth and moisture.