How to Plant Calamondin Citrus in Nigeria
Citrus fruits are among the most widely grown fruit crops in Nigeria, and each variety offers unique flavours, nutritional benefits, and economic opportunities.
Among these is the Calamondin citrus (Citrus × microcarpa), also called calamansi or Philippine lime.
Though originally native to Southeast Asia, calamondin have gained global recognition for their versatility, ornamental value, and refreshing, tangy juice.
In Nigeria, where the climate and soil conditions favour citrus production,
Calamondin can thrive and become a profitable crop for farmers who diversify beyond common citrus varieties such as oranges and lemons.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to cultivate calamondin citrus in Nigeria, from planting to harvest and pest management.
Description of the Plant
Calamondin is a small, evergreen citrus tree that typically grows between 2–6 meters tall.
It is prized both as a fruit-bearing plant and as an ornamental tree.
Its glossy, dark green leaves, fragrant white blossoms, and small, round fruits make it appealing for gardens, orchards, and home landscapes.
The fruits are small, about the size of a golf ball, measuring 2.5 to 4 cm in diameter.
They resemble tiny tangerines with thin, smooth skin that turns orange-yellow when ripe.
The flesh is juicy, acidic, and strongly flavoured, making it ideal for juices, jams, and flavouring dishes.
Nutritionally, calamondins are rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants, and flavonoids, which boost immunity, improve skin health, and aid digestion.
Their juice is used medicinally to relieve coughs, treat sore throats, and aid in detoxification.
Calamondin trees are hardy, adaptable, and capable of producing fruit all year round under good management.
They can be grown in pots, backyards, or on a larger scale in orchards.
Planting Season for Calamondin Citrus in Nigeria
The best time to plant calamondins in Nigeria is during the early rainy season (April to June).
Planting at this time ensures that seedlings benefit from regular rainfall, which promotes strong root establishment.
Farmers with irrigation facilities can plant calamondins at any time of the year,
Without irrigation, avoid planting during the dry season (November to March), when water scarcity and high temperatures may stress young plants.
Planting the Calamondin Citrus
Planting calamondins involves several careful steps to ensure long-term survival and productivity.
Step 1 – Choose a Location
Calamondins require:
- Full sunlight for at least 6–8 hours daily.
- Well-drained sandy-loamy soil enriched with organic matter.
- Soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
- Protection from strong winds, as fruits and branches can break easily.
Avoid planting in swampy, waterlogged areas, as citrus roots are sensitive to excess moisture.
Step 2 – Land Clearing and Preparation
Clear the chosen land of weeds, grasses, shrubs, and stumps.
Plough or dig to loosen compact soil, which improves aeration and water infiltration.
Mark out planting holes measuring about 50–60 cm wide and 50–60 cm deep, spacing trees 3–5 meters apart in rows.
Closer spacing is possible if the trees are managed for backyard or small-scale gardens, while larger orchards require wider spacing.
Fill each hole halfway with a mixture of topsoil and well-decomposed manure (10–15 kg per hole).
This enhances soil fertility and promotes healthy root establishment.
Step 3 – Means of Propagation
Calamondins can be propagated through several methods:
- Seeds – Easy to germinate, but may not always produce plants identical to the parent tree.
- Budding and grafting – The most reliable method for commercial cultivation, producing true-to-type plants that begin fruiting in 3–4 years.
- Cuttings and air layering – Suitable for small-scale or ornamental cultivation.
Step 4 – How to Plant Calamondin Citrus from Seed
If planting from seeds:
- Extract seeds from ripe calamondin fruits.
- Wash thoroughly to remove pulp and allow them to dry for 24 hours.
- Sow seeds in nursery bags or trays filled with a mixture of sand and compost.
- Place the nursery in a sunny, well-ventilated area and water lightly.
- Seeds germinate within 2–4 weeks.
- Once seedlings reach 15–20 cm in height with strong stems, transplant them into the field.
When transplanting, ensure the root ball is not damaged, and water immediately after planting.
Step 5 – Watering
Watering is critical during the early growth stages.
Newly transplanted seedlings should be watered 2–3 times per week during the dry season.
Mature calamondin trees require less frequent watering, but deep watering once a week during drought helps maintain productivity.
Mulching with dry grass, leaves, or sawdust helps conserve soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth.
Step 6 – Apply Manure
At planting, apply well-decomposed organic manure per hole.
As trees grow, manure should be applied around the base once or twice a year.
Supplement with NPK fertiliser per plant annually, split into two applications (before the rainy season and after fruiting).
Foliar sprays rich in micronutrients like magnesium, boron, and zinc improve flowering and fruit set.
Maturity and Harvest
Seed-grown calamondins begin to bear fruit in 5–7 years, while grafted or budded trees can start producing in 3–4 years.
Once established, trees are capable of fruiting almost year-round, although peak production often occurs during the rainy season.
Signs that calamondins are ready for harvest include:
- Fruits turn orange-yellow in colour.
- The skin becomes smooth and glossy.
- Fruits give a mild citrus fragrance when ripe.
Harvest by handpicking or using pruning shears to avoid damaging branches.
Since calamondin fruits are delicate, they should be handled gently and stored in cool conditions to extend freshness.
Pests and Diseases
Like other citrus crops in Nigeria, calamondins are vulnerable to pests and diseases.
Common pests include;
- Citrus aphids
- Citrus fruit flies
- Mealybugs
- Leaf miners
- Termites.
While common diseases include:
- Citrus canker
- Root rot
- Greening disease (Huanglongbing)
- Anthracnose
Pest and Disease Control
Proper pest and disease management ensures healthy plants and high yields.
Cultural practices
Use resistant or certified seedlings for planting.
Maintain proper spacing to encourage good air circulation.
Regularly prune diseased or weak branches.
Remove fallen leaves and fruits to prevent disease buildup.
Ensure adequate drainage to reduce root rot.
Organic methods:
Apply neem oil, garlic extract against soft-bodied insects like aphids and mealybugs.
Use compost teas to boost plant resistance.
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Chemical control:
Use approved insecticides against severe pest infestations.
Apply fungicides to control citrus canker and anthracnose.
Always follow dosage instructions to avoid crop damage and ensure food safety.
Physical methods:
Install sticky traps to control fruit flies.
Net trees to prevent bird or bat damage.
Calamondin citrus cultivation in Nigeria has great potential both as a household fruit and as a commercial venture.
With its year-round fruiting, high nutritional value, and diverse uses, calamondins are an excellent addition to Nigeria’s citrus industry.
By following the right steps, from choosing the location, land preparation, propagation, and planting to watering, manuring, and pest management, farmers can achieve healthy trees and abundant harvests.
With Nigeria’s favourable climate, growing calamondins can contribute significantly to food security, farmer income, and the diversification of fruit production across the country.
Hope this article was helpful.
