Nathan Lau > wrote:
> wrote:
>
> > Fresh Kaffir lime leaves (Makrut) are going for $30.oo a pound! Want
> > seeds? Lemme know. How're they comin' Froglegs? Graeme?
>
> I have a tree in the ground here, about a year old. Any tips on growing
> a healthy kaffir lime tree?

I don't remember where I got this info, Nate. We don't have bugs or leaf
drop and we get fruit. Hope it helps.

The most common problems scale insects and leaf drop. Watch the plant
closely for scale, since it is easiest to control when it first appears. If
there are only a few, you can remove them with a sharp knife or fingernail,
or you can rub them with a Q-tip soaked in alcohol. If you have too many
insects to handle this way, spray the plant with an insecticidal soap at
5-day intervals, or alcohol spray (4 parts water to 3 parts rubbing
alcohol.) Any time you use an alcohol spray you should shade the plant for
the day.

Leaf drop is usually caused by wide fluctuations in temperature.

GENERAL CARE

Watering
When the soil is almost dry water the plants thoroughly, but never leave
the plant standing in water. A well drained soil is best for maintaining a
good moisture level. In winter, water just enough to keep the soil from
drying out completely.

Humidity
Plants can tolerate humidity in the summer, but prefer a low humidity in
winter.

Feeding
Use a high-nitrogen liquid fertilizer. Mix it 1/4 strength and feed the
plant weekly from mid-spring until late summer. Discontinue feedings in
winter. [We use time release pellets.]

Temperature
The summer maximum should be around 87F (30C) and the winter minimum should
be 40F(5C).

You also might check out: http://h2othouse.com/html/kaffir_lime.html

--
Intuitive insights from Nick, Retired in the San Fernando Valley

http://operationiraqichildren.org/