Kumquat, all about kumquat, indoor kumquat, growing kumquat, kumquat on the windowsill, conditions for growing and propagating kumquat, kinkan, healing properties of kinkan. Kumquat - what kind of fruit is it, photo, benefits and harm Location and lighting

Have you tried kumquats yet? What kind of fruit is this? Sweet delicious citrus will surely surprise you with its taste and aroma. I want to tell you about it, as well as about the benefits of kumquat, where it comes from, and how to grow a tree from a seed at home.

My sister always treats me to all the strange fruits when she comes to visit from the Black Sea coast. She also introduced me to kumquat, bringing dried fruits. For a long time I could not understand what kind of fruit it was, what it looked like. The taste is citrus, sweet, with a slight bitterness. I didn’t immediately realize that I was eating it with the peel, since it didn’t look like it was there at all. But I ate the gift with lightning speed, as much as I liked it.

What is a kumquat

The photo above shows the same fruit - fresh, in syrup and dried. Which fruit does it most resemble? At first glance, it resembles a small orange (outwardly), but when you try it, completely new flavors will be revealed to you. Its fruits are very small, their length is approximately 5-6 cm, and their diameter — no more than 3 cm.

If we compare all the citrus fruits we know, then in terms of taste it is most similar to a sweet tangerine. In China, it is called the “golden orange” not only because of its external similarity, but also because of the benefits it brings to our body.

Kumquat is low in calories, so you can eat it... fresh without fear for your figure, 70 kcal per 100 g of product is an indicator of the calorie content of fresh citrus fruits. However, you should know that dried or dried fruits are higher in calories; in a 100 g bag, which are usually sold in stores, there are approximately 280 kcal.

Another interesting question related to its names. This representative of the Rutaceae family has two more names, which are quite widely used in colloquial speech and on relevant thematic forums. One of them is fortunella, and the other is kinkan. In China, the plant’s homeland, it is more often called kumquat; the Japanese call it kinkan. It is called Fortunella because it belongs to an independent genus, while citrus is the general name of this crop.

Kumquat in natural conditions

Fortunella fruit consists of 80% water, contains potassium - the fruit contains the most of it, and also contains a lot of carbohydrates and organic components (monosaccharides). Calcium, phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, iron and sodium are also among the minerals present in this little sunshine fruit. Kumquat contains the most vitamin C (almost 50%), slightly less vitamin A, E, B3 and B5, P.

List useful components I can go on for a long time: antioxidants, essential oils, fatty acids (unsaturated and saturated, polyunsaturated), lutein, carotene, pectin. This citrus has one remarkable feature worthy of attention. — no matter where it grows, it will not “pull” nitrates from the soil; accordingly, it will not accumulate them in the peel or pulp.

By the way, about the peel - it is incredibly useful, along with the pulp of the fruit.

The kumquat plant captivates with its exoticism. Growing and propagating this fruit is possible at home. By planting it and providing proper care, you can not only grow a very decorative tree, as in the photos presented, but also enjoy the exquisite taste of its fruits.

General description of the plant

The homeland of the kumquat is China. From there to further plant was imported to America and Europe. Its name translates as “golden orange”. In Japan, another common name for the fruit is Kinkan (golden apple).

Kumquat is very beautiful plant with delicious fruits

The plant is a small tree. At home it grows up to 1.5 m, and in wildlife– up to 4.5 m. The crown of the kumquat is highly branched, dense, densely leafy. The leaves are small, smooth, dark green. The kumquat blooms with white and pink fragrant flowers. The flowers are arranged singly or in inflorescences. The fruits are somewhat reminiscent of tangerines, only much smaller. Their weight does not exceed 30 g, the skin is thin, bright orange. The taste of kumquat fruits is balanced, thanks to the aromatic sweet skin and sour pulp.

2-3 months after flowering, the tree begins to bear fruit. The fruits ripen in late winter - early spring. During this period, the kumquat becomes more decorative, as can be seen in the photographs presented.

Kumquat Nagami

Varieties and varieties of kumquat

The most common kumquat grown at home is the Nagami Kumquat. Externally it is very ornamental plant and is used in the design of bonsai gardens. Its crown is compact and completely strewn with bright orange fruits during the fruiting period. Available garden forms Kumquat Nagami:

• Nordmann Nagami- a seedless subspecies, similar in appearance to Nagas.
• Variegated- his distinctive feature are yellowish or cream-colored leaves. The fruits initially have longitudinal green stripes, which disappear as they ripen.

Variegated kumquat

• Kumquat Marumi(Marumi Kumquat) is distinguished by the presence of thorns on its branches. The size of the tree of this species is somewhat smaller. The fruits are golden-orange when ripe, with small seeds. The plant is conditionally winter-hardy. In the southern regions it can grow in open ground.

Kumquat Marumi

• Less known species kumquat Maeva(Meiwa Kumquat) gives fruits with the brightest taste. The tree is very decorative, dwarf, with a dense crown and small hard leaves. The fruits are relatively large and resemble lemons in appearance. The rind is golden, sometimes with shades of yellow.

Kumquat Maewa

• The most large fruits boasts a variety Fukushi(otherwise Changshu, Latin Fukushii Kumquat). The tree grows a meter or a little more in height, while its crown is spreading and dense. Its leaves are larger than those of other representatives of the genus. The fruits can be either oval or pear-shaped. The juicy pulp of dessert taste is surrounded by a thin, very sweet orange skin.

Fukushi kumquat

• Kumquat Hong Kong(Hong Kong Kumquat) is distinguished by dry fruits, about the size of a pea. The fruit of this kumquat is practically not eaten. Its branches have numerous long prickly thorns.

Kumquat Hong Kong

• There is another type of kumquat that is not grown at home - Malay(MalayanKumquat). At home it is grown as green hedges. It is distinguished by its impressive size and large golden fruits.

In addition to kumquat varieties, there are a number of interspecific hybrids:

• calamondin - a hybrid obtained by crossing a kumquat with a tangerine;
• limequat - a hybrid of kumquat and lime;
• orangequat is a hybrid of kumquat and orange.

Planting and caring for kumquat

The kumquat growth period lasts 1-2 months, starting in April. Annual growth is up to 10 cm. The young plant produces two increments per year, which distinguishes the kumquat from other representatives of citrus fruits. The tree blooms in mid-summer for a week. Flowering may occur again after 2-3 weeks. At home, the flowering of the tree should be normalized. By the end of winter, exotic fruits ripen on the kumquat.

At proper care, in winter the tree will bear fruit

Location. Kumquat needs to highlight the most sunny place in the house. In summer, create conditions for diffused lighting; you can take it outside or onto a balcony. In winter - as much direct sunlight as possible and, if possible, cool air.

Attention! To ensure that the kumquat has a miniature size, take a small container for planting. For the full development of the tree, large pots are used.

The soil. To plant kumquats, use a soil mixture of turf and garden soil, leaf humus and river sand.

Kumquats need to be watered generously

Watering. Kumquat loves watering very much. They should be plentiful and regular, but without stagnation of moisture. In the summer heat and when the central heating is on, the plant needs frequent spraying and wiping the leaves with a damp cloth. If the air is too dry, the tree begins to ache and shed its leaves. It would also be useful to “take a shower” with a kumquat, simulating natural rain.

Attention! Watering should only be done warm water. Otherwise, the tree will lose its leaves.

Trimming. Spring is the period of formation of the kumquat crown. To do this, 2-3 shoots are left on the main branches, the rest are removed. The remaining shoots are shortened slightly, thereby stimulating the growth of young shoots.

Transfer. The plant needs to be replanted every two to three years. They do this by transshipment so as not to disturb the earthen lump. The soil and drainage layer in the pot must be replaced with new ones.

Attention! Transplantation is carried out in early spring before growth begins.

Feeding and fertilizing

Without regular feeding The kumquat will not bear fruit. The frequency of fertilization depends on many factors:

• the age of the tree and its condition;
• used for growing soil;
• pot size.

So, if the kumquat pot is small, fertilizing needs to be done more often.

During the growth period, kumquats are fed every ten days with phosphorus-potassium fertilizers. During the dormant period, the amount of fertilizing is reduced to once a month.

Fertilizers are also necessary for fruiting and normal development of the plant.

Optimal composition of complex fertilizer (per 1 liter of water):

• ammonium nitrate – 1/4 teaspoon;
• potassium chloride – 1/8 teaspoon;
• simple superphosphate - 1/2 teaspoon.

Kumquat is also responsive to the addition of wood ash infusion.

Diseases and pests

Kumquat is affected by many diseases common to citrus fruits. Symptoms of trouble may include:

• spots on leaves;
• change in leaf shape and color;
• paniculation of shoots;
• drying out of the tree;
• formation of growths.

Spotting on kumquat leaves

Fungal and bacterial diseases (anthracnose, warts, gommosis, etc.) can be cured. If the plant has buds or fruits, they need to be removed to save the kumquat’s strength. Next, multiple treatments with fungicides are carried out. During this period, it is important to properly care for the tree, restoring its vital energy.

Advice. To prevent the development of fungal and bacterial diseases, kumquat can be treated with a 1% solution of Bordeaux mixture 2-3 times during the growth period.

A tree infected with a virus (xyloporosis, thrispeza, etc.) cannot be cured.

In unfavorable climate indoors, kumquats are attacked by aphids, spider mite, scale insects and other sucking pests, which are controlled with special preparations.

Kumquat propagation

Kumquats can be propagated in several ways:

• seeds;
• cuttings;
• rooting of cuttings;
• grafting onto rootstocks.

Grown from seeds, young plants do not retain their maternal qualities and begin to bear fruit late. This method is mainly used by breeders to develop new varieties and grow rootstocks.

Kumquat seedling

At home, propagation by cuttings is most acceptable. Cuttings are cut in the spring, picking up short young shoots from last year's fruit-bearing kumquat. Leaves are cut in half. Root the cuttings in damp sand, covering the container with glass or film. The improvised greenhouse is opened from time to time to ventilate the seedlings.

Advice. To quickly root cuttings, planting material can be treated with any growth stimulant.

Rooted cuttings are planted in pots with soil. Further care care for a seedling is carried out as for an adult plant.

It is quite possible to grow a kumquat at home, providing it with proper care. The results you will get are not only elegant decorative tree, but also tasty, healthy fruits.

Growing kumquat: video

The domestic kumquat (kinkan) is a small tree, no more than 1.5 m high. It actively bushes, forming a round, compact, dense crown with large green leaves. During the fruiting period, it is covered with numerous white-pink fragrant flowers, which makes the plant decorative and attractive in appearance.

IN room conditions The growth period of this crop lasts from April to May. Lasts for 1-2 months. A young kumquat has two growth periods, an adult - one. The average growth is 5-8 cm. Flowering begins in September. The fruits ripen in late February - early March.

Kumquat at home

At indoors The tree is propagated mainly by cuttings. Cuttings can be carried out year-round, but rooting will be faster and easier if this work is carried out in April-May. Before planting, the cuttings are treated with a growth stimulator, which will speed up the root formation process. For cutting cuttings, shoots of healthy, fruit-bearing individuals are selected. The shoots should be green and flexible, 5-9 cm long with 2-3 buds. The leaf blades of the cuttings are cut by 1/3 or 2/3 depending on their size. The lower sections of the cuttings are sprinkled with crushed charcoal, this will prevent them from rotting. Root the kinkan in a small container filled with soil mixture. The top of the stalk is covered glass jar, thereby creating greenhouse conditions for it, which is necessary for better rooting. A drainage layer consisting of sand or small stones is placed at the bottom of the container. The bottom layer is covered with sphagnum moss, and a layer of soil is poured on top. The soil is covered with a layer of river sand (3-4 cm). 3-5 cuttings are placed in one pot with a diameter of 7-10 cm to a depth of 2-3 cm. The container is placed in a warm place under diffused sunlight.

Homemade kumquat

Kumquats can also be propagated by seeds at home, but individuals grown by seed begin to bear fruit 8-10 years after planting.

Seeds are planted in a pot with a mixture fertile soil and river sand. The top is covered with polyethylene. The first shoots will appear in 1-2 months. Seedlings with 4-5 leaves are transplanted into separate containers. When transplanting, the seedlings are carefully removed from the pot and planted in separate containers.

When propagating by layering on a fruit-bearing plant, an annual shoot about 20 cm long is selected. 2 round cuts are made in the bark 10 cm above the base of the shoot at a distance of 1 cm from each other. The cut ring is then removed from the bark. Leaves located 5 cm above and below the ring are cut off. Plastic container with a diameter of 7-9 cm, cut lengthwise in the center. On the bottom halves, 2 semicircles are cut out in the center, equal to the thickness of the shoot. The container is tied to the shoot so that the cut of the bark is located in the center of it. The two parts of the container are connected with wire and filled with a substrate consisting of peat and sand. As the substrate dries, it is moistened. After a month, roots will form above the ring cut. After 2 months, the shoot located below the bottom is cut off, the halves of the container are separated, and the plant with the lump is transplanted into a new container.

When propagated by grafting, kinkan seedlings are used as a rootstock, the base thickness of which is 0.5-0.9 cm. Poncirus trifolia can also serve as a rootstock.

Indoor kumquat is grafted during the period of sap flow and active shoot growth.

When citrus is propagated by cuttings, layering and grafting, trees bear fruit earlier than with the seed propagation method. Grafted individuals are more resistant to adverse external factors.

Caring for indoor kumquat at home

When growing kumquat at home, you should provide the plant with proper and regular care.

This culture is light, warm and moisture-loving. Needs good lighting, but away from direct sunlight. In winter, if there is a lack of sunlight, artificial lighting is created; the pot is placed on a window facing south. In summer the tree is taken out into the garden.

When the air is excessively dry and there is a lack of moisture, the kinkan sheds its leaves, so it is necessary to monitor the condition of the soil and the crown of the tree, water regularly, and in extreme heat and when the heating is on, spray the crown. Settled water should be used for irrigation room temperature, because watering cold water causes yellowing and falling of leaves. In winter, it is enough to water citrus 1-2 times a week.

Caring for kumquat at home also includes periodic feeding. from March to September they feed 2 times a month, the rest of the time - 1 time a month. An aqueous solution consisting of ammonium nitrate(2-3 g), potassium salt (1-2 g), superphosphate (4-6 g). Fertilizers are dissolved in 1 liter of warm water.

When growing kumquat at home, the plant is transplanted. Fruiting individuals are replanted in February-March every 2-3 years. Transplantation is carried out using the transshipment method, avoiding damage to intertwined roots.

Kumquat - exotic plant, captivating with its beauty. It is successfully grown and propagated by gardeners at home. As practice shows, not in its natural habitat, but with proper care, this ornamental tree even bears fruit. Therefore, growing kumquat at home is of interest to both flower growers and gardeners.

Botanical information about the plant

The birthplace of the described fruit is China. It was from there that kumquats were exported to America and Europe. Translated from Latin, its name means “golden orange”. In Japan, the tree is usually called by the modified word “Kinkan”, which means “golden apple”.

The plant is dwarf, tree-like. IN natural conditions grows up to 4.5 m in height, in domestic plants - up to 1.65 m. Forms a highly branched, dense, densely leafy crown of small, smooth, dark green leaf plates.

During flowering, the kumquat is covered with small white flowers with a pinkish tint, located singly or collected in small inflorescences. Forms fruits that are similar in appearance to tangerines, but differ in size. Kumquat is much smaller than the usual oranges. One fruit reaches a maximum of 30-35 g. Externally, it is covered with a thin skin of a bright orange color, like citrus fruits.

The taste of kumquat is balanced due to its aromatic sweet skin and slightly sour pulp.

It blooms for 2-3 months, after which it enters a period of active fruiting. Fruits ripen towards the end of winter - towards the beginning of spring. By this period, the tree acquires more decorative look.

Features of planting and growing plants

Kumquats, like all members of the citrus genus, grow from seeds, cuttings, layering and grafting. This plant is exotic in our region of residence, so it can not be purchased in every supermarket. This is what encourages flower growers to become interested in the issue of growing kumquat at home from seed.

Let us clarify right away that this process is labor-intensive and requires time and effort.

In order for the seed to germinate, it is planted in a moist soil mixture consisting of sand and garden soil in a 1:1 ratio. Required condition is to maintain optimal humidity environment where the seed is located, otherwise the plant will not be able to hatch. A seedling with 4 leaves usually appears after 6-8 weeks. Further cultivation kumquat at home comes down to standard scheme- the plant is transplanted into another container after a couple of months, as it gets stronger.

Plant propagation by grafting is also common. To do this, you will need strong seedlings with a stem thickness of at least 10 mm. Experts advise grafting kumquat onto grapefruit rootstock during active movement juices At this time, the sprout takes root within 4-6 weeks.

Propagation by cuttings is carried out regardless of the time of year, and the procedure itself is no different from the propagation methods of other fruit crops. Young cuttings are simply cut and kept in a special liquid substance stimulating growth. After this, at an angle they land in wet soil, waiting for root formation.

Secrets of successfully growing fortunella, or kumquat, at home

Landing indoor plant It begins not with the procedure itself, but long before that - with the selection of a pot. The container is selected depending on the size of the tree you want to grow. Compact dwarf - in a small pot, but such a tree does not always bear fruit. By choosing a large pot, you can get not just an ornamental plant, but a full-fledged fruit-bearing tree. Regardless of the volume of the vessel, try to choose a container made from natural raw materials, mainly clay.

Before planting a kumquat, treat the pot with boiling water. Don't forget about the drainage layer at the bottom, which will prevent stagnation of moisture during watering, which contributes to rotting of the roots.

What to plant in?

It is better to buy the substrate at a specialized center or store, and it is better to take a specific mixture - for citrus fruits. Why is it recommended to use a purchased substance for planting and growing kumquat from seeds at home? Because it already contains a number necessary components, minerals and nutrients.

When preparing it yourself, try to mix the ingredients in the same proportions. For this you will need:

• peat;
• fertile land;
• compost or humus;
• sand.

When planting, the seeds are deepened 2 centimeters into the ground. Grown seedlings are planted so that root collar was approximately at the same level with the soil surface.

How to water and fertilize

In the cold season, the plant needs 1-2 waterings per week, in spring and autumn - every other day, in summer - daily. Watering is done in the morning with warm, settled water, since cold liquid can cause kumquat leaves to turn yellow and fall off.

In summer, the tree needs constant spraying, especially if the house or apartment has a dry microclimate, and in winter it is enough to wipe the leaves with a damp sponge.

Be sure to cover the top layer of soil in the pot with mulch or moss to prevent it from drying out.

Rules for growing kumquat at home include spring fertilizers during the active growing season. Mineral and organic fertilizers containing nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus are well accepted by the plant.

It would be advisable to use nitrogen complexes before the plant enters the flowering period. During set and fruiting, kumquat needs potassium-phosphorus fertilizers. In the warm season (spring and summer), the tree is often fertilized, applying complexes 2-3 times a month, in the fall - 1-2 times a month. With the onset of the dormant period, feeding is canceled.

Kumquat responds well to both root and foliar feeding. When applying fertilizers, follow the recommended scheme when growing nagami kumquat at home:

1. Spray with nutrient sprays before the plant begins to bloom. When carrying out the procedure when the plant forms ovaries or fruits ripen on the tree, make sure that drops of the solution fall only on the foliage.
2. Apply fertilizing in the morning or evening, when the sun is not so hot, otherwise the plant will overheat and overheat.
3. Before applying root fertilizers, make sure that the soil is moistened, since the roots may get burned if they come into contact with the fertilizer.

Trimming Features

Growing kumquat at home involves pruning the plant in the spring. During this period, the crown of the tree is formed. No more than three shoots are left on the main branches, and the rest are disposed of. The remaining branches are slightly shortened, thus stimulating the growth of young shoots.

How to replant a decorative tangerine

Transplantation through transshipment occurs systematically, once every 2-3 years. Try not to disturb the earthen ball, otherwise there is a risk of plant death. The soil and drainage layer from the pot are thrown away and replaced with a new one.

Please note that replanting should be carried out in early spring, before the plant begins to grow.

Feeding and fertilizer application scheme

Fruiting cannot be achieved without regular fertilizing. The frequency of their application is determined by the following factors:

• age and condition of the kumquat tree;
• soil used for growing kumquat fruit at home;
• pot volume.

If the container is small, fertilizing is applied more often. With the onset of the active growth phase, the plant needs systematic feeding with a phosphate-potassium complex, which is recommended to be applied once every ten days. During the plant's dormant period, it is enough to do this once a month.

When growing kumquat at home, caring for it consists of a number of rules, including fertilizing the plant, without which fruiting and normal development of the fruit cannot be achieved.

DIY fertilizer

You can prepare the mixture for feeding the plant yourself at home. Complex fertilizer for kumquat consists of the following ingredients:

• water - 1 l;
• ammonium nitrate - 1/4 tsp;
• potassium chloride - 1/8 tsp;
• simple superphosphate - 1/2 tsp.

In addition, the plant responds well to the addition of wood ash infusion.

What ails a tree

More than 50% of diseases affecting citrus plants, cause disturbances in its growth and development. Symptoms of damage by pests or bacteria include:

• leaf spot;
• modification of the shape and color of the plates;
• paniculation of shoots;
• drying out of the plant;
• formation of growths.

Fungal and bacterial diseases, including anthracnose, warts, gommosis and many others, are successfully treated. Having identified the diseased state of the plant, remove all the fruits or buds from the tree to save its strength and use it for restoration. Next, treat the kumquat with fungicides, and this process will not be enough with just one treatment. Growing and caring for kumquat at home during plant illness involves diligent therapy in order to restore vital energy.

It is important to remember that for preventive purposes and to prevent the development of fungal and bacterial diseases, you need to treat the plant with a one percent solution of Bordeaux mixture no more than 3 times during one period of plant growth.

How to Treat Kumquat Trees

Trees infected with a virus and suffering from xyloporosis, thripez and other diseases cannot be completely cured. You can only contain the spread of the disease for a while or maintain the plant in optimal condition for as long as possible.

Growing kumquat at home is quite possible, the main thing is to provide it with proper care. As a result, you will receive an amazingly beautiful, graceful tree that not only decorative function, but also pleasing with tasty and healthy fruits.

These are all the secrets of growing kumquat at home, by adhering to which you can turn the process of cultivating the plant into a procedure that brings pleasure and not trouble.

We offer to grow a famous one at home exotic fruit kumquat or kinkan. In my own way appearance the plant resembles a small tree that can reach even one and a half meters in height. The leaves on the tree are large and richly green. The plant is especially attractive during the fruiting period. Kinkan blooms with small flowers white with a pink tint, which exude a sweetish aroma.

The tree grows quite quickly periodically, and one of the most active ones occurs in the last spring months. For young plant it is normal to have two growth periods in one season, whereas mature trees have only one.

Kumquat begins to bloom in early autumn, and ripe fruits will appear only after six months. Many people know that the fruits are quite edible and have a rich vitamin composition.

Kumquat - growing at home

Not everyone knows that a tree can be grown at home from seeds that can be bought in a store. But it is worth knowing that the kinkan will bear fruit only after eight, or even ten years. The seed can also be “obtained” from a purchased fruit, which must be ripe. It needs to be planted in a pot with a mixture of black soil and sand a couple of centimeters deep. It is necessary to maintain the required humidity, for which the soil is watered abundantly, but the excess must be removed from the pan. It is recommended to cover the container with the seed with film or glass and transfer it to a bright place at a low temperature.

Now for one to two months you just need to water and ventilate periodically. After this period, a sprout should appear, which can be transplanted into its own pot when the fourth or fifth leaf appears. For further growth, it is better to apply fertilizer, which can be purchased at flower shops.

Some people prefer to propagate kumquats using shoots taken from an adult, already fruit-bearing plant. The sprout must be at least twenty centimeters long, and two cuts must be made in the center at a distance of one centimeter. Remove the bark between cuts and place in soil, which should be constantly moist. Over time, roots will appear on the shoot, forming over time a new root system. It will be possible to replant the sprout with roots in a couple of months.

Cuttings are also practiced for propagating kinkan, which is also taken from an adult plant. It is best to carry out cuttings in April before the flowering period, otherwise it may not take root. The stalk must be at least five centimeters long and have two to three leaves. The cutting will be best accepted if it is treated with a special solution that stimulates growth. It is better to treat the other end of the cutting with crushed charcoal, sprinkle with earth and cover with a glass jar. The resulting greenhouse must be installed in a bright place, not forgetting to ventilate the cuttings from time to time and moisten the soil. As a rule, one and a half to two months are enough for the cuttings to root.

Fruiting

Many people try to grow this exotic plant in order to enjoy the fruits of the kinkan. This is quite possible, but certain conditions must be provided. First of all, kumkan needs sunlight, so the place should be selected accordingly. In summer the plant feels great on fresh air, but keep it away from direct sunlight. IN winter period For fruit ripening, it is necessary to organize additional lighting.