How to Plant Kumquat Citrus in Nigeria

Kumquat (Citrus japonica) is a small, vibrant citrus fruit known for its unique combination of sweet peel and tart pulp. 

Unlike most citrus fruits, kumquats are eaten whole, peel and all, making them a delightful fruit.

Kumquats have found a place in tropical and subtropical climates around the world, including parts of Nigeria.

As interest in citrus cultivation continues to grow among Nigerian farmers and home gardeners, kumquats present an exciting opportunity. 

These hardy, compact trees are well-suited for both in-ground planting and container gardening. 

With proper care and the right planting techniques, you can enjoy a healthy harvest of this exotic citrus right from your backyard or farm. 

This article provides a detailed guide on how to successfully plant and grow kumquat citrus in Nigeria. 

From choosing the right location and preparing the land to propagation methods and transplanting tips.

Description of the Kumquat Citrus Plant

The plant grows between 2-4 meters in height, with dark green leaves and fragrant white flowers.

Kumquats are ideal for both home gardens and small-scale commercial farming. 

They adapt well to container gardening and produce attractive ornamental trees in addition to fruit.

Planting Season for Kumquat in Nigeria

The best time to plant kumquats in Nigeria is during the early rainy season (March to May). 

This allows the young plants to establish roots with the help of consistent moisture and moderate temperatures.

Planting Kumquat

Step 1: Choose a Location

Choose a site with:

• Full sunlight exposure (minimum 6 hours/day)
  
• Well-drained, sandy-loam or loamy soil
  
• Soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5
  
• Protection from wind, especially during the early growth stage
  

Kumquats can also thrive in large containers if space is limited.

Step 2: Land Clearing and Preparation

• Clear the area of weeds, shrubs, and debris.
  
• Loosen the soil by ploughing or manually digging.
  
• Create holes 30-60 cm deep and wide.
  
• Ensure spacing of 2.5-3 meters between plants for small garden settings.
  

Step 3: Means of Propagation

Kumquats can be propagated through:

• Grafting onto hardy citrus rootstocks (recommended for uniformity and disease resistance)
  
• Seeds (less commonly used due to variability and long time to maturity)
  
• Cuttings from healthy, mature trees
  

Step 4: How to Plant Kumquats from Seed

If starting from seeds:

• Collect seeds from ripe kumquat fruits and wash thoroughly.
  
• Dry for a day in the shade.
  
• Sow in seed trays or poly bags filled with rich, well-drained soil mix.
  
• Keep under partial shade and water regularly.
  
• Transplant to the field when seedlings are 20-30 cm tall (6-9 months old).

How to grow from a seedling

Transplant the Seedling:
Remove the kumquat seedling gently from its nursery bag. 

Place it upright in the hole, ensuring the root collar is level with the soil surface.

Backfill and Water:
Fill the hole with soil, press lightly to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly. 

Keep the soil moist, especially in the first few weeks

Step 5: Watering

• Water regularly during the first year (2-3 times weekly).
  
• Mature trees need less frequent but deeper watering, particularly during flowering and fruit set.
  
• Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
  

Step 6: Apply Manure

• At planting: Add well-rotted compost or poultry manure to each hole.
  
• After establishment: Apply fertiliser twice a year.
  
• Organic mulches like dry grass or shredded leaves help conserve soil moisture and improve fertility over time.
  

Maturity and Harvest

• Grafted kumquat trees begin fruiting within 2 to 3 years.
  
• Seed-grown trees may take 4 to 6 years to bear fruit.
  
• Fruits typically mature 6 to 8 months after flowering.
  
• Harvest by hand when the fruits turn fully orange and slightly soft.
  

Pests and Diseases

Common Pests:

• Citrus aphids
  
• Citrus thrips
  
• Scale insects
  
• Citrus psyllids
  

Common Diseases:

• Anthracnose
  
• Citrus canker
  
• Root rot
  
• Greasy spot
  

Pest and Disease Control

Management Strategies:

• Use clean planting materials and certified grafted seedlings.
  
• Spray neem oil to control soft-bodied insects like aphids and thrips.
  
• Use fungicides to manage fungal infections.
  
• Maintain field sanitation: prune dead branches and remove fallen fruits.
  
• Avoid overwatering and improve soil drainage to minimise root rot.
  

Natural pest enemies like ladybugs can be encouraged in home gardens for organic control.

Hope this article was helpful.