Calamondin is a popular citrus fruit that is a cross between a tangerine and a kumquat. It is a small tree that produces fragrant flowers and edible fruits. However, calamondin leaves turning yellow can be a cause for concern for gardeners.
In this article, we will explore the reasons why calamondin leaves turn yellow and how to fix the problem.
Yellowing of the leaves is a common symptom of many plant problems, and it can be caused by a variety of factors. In the case of calamondin trees, yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering, lack of nutrients, pests, or disease.
It is important to diagnose the underlying cause of the problem to determine the appropriate treatment. By understanding the reasons why calamondin leaves turn yellow, gardeners can take steps to prevent the problem and keep their trees healthy.
Key Takeaways
- Yellowing of calamondin leaves can be caused by overwatering, lack of nutrients, pests, or disease.
- Proper watering and moisture management, soil and fertilizer requirements, and light and temperature needs are important for preventing yellowing of calamondin leaves.
- Regular repotting and pruning, as well as seasonal care, can help keep calamondin trees healthy.
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Understanding Calamondin Leaves Turning Yellow
Signs and Symptoms
Yellowing leaves are one of the most common symptoms of a sick Calamondin plant. In the early stages, the leaves may appear light green or yellowish-green, but as the condition worsens, the leaves turn yellow and may even fall off. The yellowing usually starts from the tips of the leaves and spreads towards the base.
Calamondin Leaves Turning Yellow
Several factors can cause Calamondin leaves to turn yellow. The most common causes are overwatering, pests, and nutrient deficiencies:
1. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which prevents the plant from absorbing nutrients, causing the leaves to turn yellow.
2. Pests, such as spider mites and scale insects, can also cause yellowing leaves.
3. Nutrient deficiencies, such as magnesium, zinc, or iron, can also cause the leaves to turn yellow.
4. Other causes of yellowing Calamondin leaves include drastic temperature fluctuations, too much or too little light, and improper pruning. Drastic temperature fluctuations can cause leaf drop, while too much or too little light can cause stress on the plant, leading to yellowing leaves.
5. Improper pruning can also cause the plant to lose leaves and turn yellow.
To fix yellowing Calamondin leaves, it is important to identify the underlying cause. If the plant is overwatered, reduce watering frequency and ensure the soil is well-draining.
If pests are the issue, use an appropriate insecticide or organic pest control method. For nutrient deficiencies, use a balanced fertilizer or add the missing nutrient to the soil.
Watering and Moisture Management
Calamondin plants need adequate watering to thrive. Overwatering or underwatering can cause yellowing of the leaves, so it is essential to strike a balance and provide just the right amount of water.
The top inch of the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings. In the winter, when the plant is resting, water only enough to keep the soil mixture from completely drying out.
During the first year after planting, give your calamondin a deep watering on a weekly basis. Provide water twice weekly in times of very high temperatures. After the tree roots are established, cut back a little on irrigation.
It is also important to use distilled water or rainwater for watering. Tap water can contain chlorine and other chemicals that can harm the plant. If tap water is the only option, allow it to sit overnight before using it to water the plant.
Drought conditions can also cause yellowing of the leaves. If the plant is not getting enough water, the leaves will turn yellow and dry. It is important to water the plant adequately so that it doesn’t suffer from drought conditions.
Soil and Fertilizer Requirements
Calamondin trees require well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH level of 6.0 to 6.5. A loam soil mix that is rich in organic matter is ideal for growing calamondin trees. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.
Fertilizers are essential for the growth and development of calamondin trees. Nitrogen is the most important nutrient for citrus trees like calamondin, and a nitrogen deficiency can cause yellowing of leaves. Regular applications of a balanced liquid fertilizer can help provide the necessary nitrogen to the tree.
In addition to nitrogen, micronutrients like phosphorus and potassium are also important for the growth of calamondin trees. A slow-release fertilizer with micronutrients can be applied to the soil during the growing season to ensure the tree gets all the necessary nutrients.
When potting a calamondin tree, it is important to use a potting mix that is specifically designed for citrus trees. The mix should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. Liquid fertilizers can be added to the water used to water the tree to ensure it gets the necessary nutrients.
Light and Temperature Needs
Calamondin plants require plenty of sunlight to grow and thrive. They prefer full sun, which means they need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. During the summer, it is essential to provide them with enough sunlight.
In contrast, during the winter, it is best to move them to a brighter location or use artificial light to supplement their needs.
While calamondin plants need plenty of sunlight, they are also sensitive to extreme temperatures. They prefer warm temperatures, with a range of 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 29 degrees Celsius). If the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius), the plant may suffer from cold damage.
During the winter months, it is crucial to keep the plant away from cold drafts and windows. If you live in a cold climate, it may be best to move the plant indoors or cover it with a protective layer. In contrast, during the summer months, it is essential to keep the plant away from direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
If you are growing calamondin plants indoors, it is best to place them near a south-facing window to ensure they receive enough sunlight. If you do not have access to a south-facing window, you can use artificial light to supplement their needs. They prefer bright indirect light, so make sure the light is not too harsh or too dim.
Pests and Diseases
Calamondin leaves turning yellow can be a sign of pests or diseases affecting the plant. These issues can cause the plant to weaken, wither, and eventually die if left untreated. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect calamondin plants:
1. Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, cottony pests that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually fall off. They can also secrete a sticky substance called honeydew that attracts ants and can lead to fungal diseases.
To get rid of mealybugs, wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or a soapy water solution.
2. Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, oval-shaped pests that can be brown, black, or white in color. They can attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant and feed on its sap, causing yellowing and wilting. To treat scale insects, use an insecticidal soap or oil spray, or prune off heavily infested branches.
3. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can be difficult to see with the naked eye. They feed on the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and discoloration. They can also spin webs on the leaves, which can make the plant look unsightly. To treat spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or use an insecticidal soap or oil spray.
4. Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that can affect the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and eventually die. This can lead to yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To prevent root rot, make sure the plant is not overwatered and that the soil is well-draining.
If root rot is already present, remove the affected roots and repot the plant in fresh, sterile soil.
5. Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that can cause yellowing and discoloration of the leaves. It can also cause small, orange-brown spots on the underside of the leaves. To treat rust, remove the affected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
Repotting and Pruning
If the yellowing of calamondin leaves is due to overwatering, repotting the plant can help. The plant should be repotted in a container that is one size larger than its current container.
When repotting, it is important to use a well-draining soil mix that allows excess water to drain away from the roots. This will prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged and rotting.
Pruning is another way to help the plant recover from yellowing leaves. Pruning should be done in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Dead or damaged branches should be removed, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.
This will help improve airflow and sunlight penetration, which can prevent the growth of fungi and other diseases that can cause yellowing of the leaves.
When pruning, it is important to use sharp, clean tools to prevent damaging the plant. The tools should be disinfected with rubbing alcohol or a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water before and after use.
If the plant is in a container, it may need to be pruned more frequently to keep it from becoming too large for its container. This can be done by removing some of the branches or by repotting the plant into a larger container.
Calamondin Plant Care in Different Seasons
Calamondin plants require proper care to thrive and produce healthy, edible fruits. The following are some tips for taking care of calamondin plants in different seasons:
Spring and Summer
During the growing season, which is typically from spring to summer, calamondin plants require regular watering. It is important to keep the soil moist but not overly wet. Deeply watering the plant once a week is usually sufficient, but this may vary depending on the growing conditions.
Calamondin plants also require high humidity levels, especially during the blooming period. Misting the plant regularly can help maintain the required humidity levels. Fertilizing the plant with a balanced fertilizer every fortnight can also help promote healthy growth and fruiting.
Fall and Winter
In the fall and winter, calamondin plants enter a dormant phase. During this time, they require less water and fertilizer. It is important to avoid over watering the plant, as this can lead to premature leaf drop and other issues.
If the plant is growing in an area with frost, it is important to protect it from the cold. This can be done by moving the plant indoors or covering it with a frost cloth.
Propagation
Calamondin plants can be propagated using seeds or cuttings. When propagating using cuttings, it is important to use softwood cuttings taken in the summer. These cuttings can be rooted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, humid environment until they are established.
Common Issues
Yellowing of the leaves is a common issue with calamondin plants. This can be caused by over watering, under watering, or nutrient deficiencies. It is important to monitor the plant’s water and nutrient levels to ensure it is getting the proper care.
In addition, the plant may drop its leaves prematurely if it is not getting enough light or if it is exposed to cold drafts.
Specifics of Calamondin Varieties
Calamondin oranges are a type of citrus fruit that are often grown as indoor plants. They are small, sour fruits that resemble kumquats in appearance. Calamondin oranges are also known as citrus calamondin, Philippine lime, calamansi lime, or acid orange.
The calamondin orange tree is a small evergreen tree with glossy mid-green leaves. It is a popular choice for indoor plants because it can tolerate low light conditions and is relatively easy to care for.
There are several varieties of calamondin oranges, including the mandarin and citrus mitis varieties. Each variety has its own unique characteristics, such as fruit size, flavor, and seed formation.
Fruit formation in calamondin oranges can be affected by a variety of factors, including temperature, humidity, and light conditions. In general, the fruit will form best in warm, humid conditions with plenty of sunlight.
Calamondin oranges can also be used to help other plants grow. For example, the acidic juice from the fruit can be used as a natural fertilizer for tomato plants and seedlings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my calamondin leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing of calamondin leaves is a common issue that can be caused by various factors. Overwatering is one of the most common reasons why calamondin leaves turn yellow.
Calamansi likes water but not waterlogged conditions. Overwatering stunts the plant’s growth and often leads to root rot. So, it pays to water your calamondin tree consciously. Make sure the soil is well-draining. Lack of nutrients, pests, and toxicity can also cause yellowing of the leaves.
Why is my calamansi tree dying?
A dying calamansi tree could be due to various reasons such as overwatering, lack of nutrients, pests, and diseases. It is important to identify the root cause and take appropriate action to save the tree.
If the tree is overwatered, reduce the frequency of watering and make sure the soil is well-draining. If the tree lacks nutrients, fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer. If the tree is affected by pests or diseases, treat it with appropriate pesticides or fungicides.
How to save dying calamansi plant?
To save a dying calamansi plant, it is important to identify the root cause of the problem. If the plant is overwatered, reduce the frequency of watering and make sure the soil is well-draining.
If the plant lacks nutrients, fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer. If the plant is affected by pests or diseases, treat it with appropriate pesticides or fungicides. Pruning the affected branches and leaves can also help the plant recover.
Calamansi leaves curling?
Curling of calamansi leaves is a common issue that can be caused by various factors such as lack of water, pests, and diseases. If the leaves are curling due to lack of water, increase the frequency of watering.
If the leaves are curling due to pests or diseases, treat the plant with appropriate pesticides or fungicides. Pruning the affected branches and leaves can also help the plant recover.
Why are my citrus leaves turning yellow and falling off?
Yellowing and falling off of citrus leaves is a common issue that can be caused by various factors such as overwatering, lack of nutrients, pests, and diseases.
It is important to identify the root cause of the problem and take appropriate action. If the tree is overwatered, reduce the frequency of watering and make sure the soil is well-draining.
If the tree lacks nutrients, fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer. If the tree is affected by pests or diseases, treat it with appropriate pesticides or fungicides.
How do you fix yellow leaves on citrus trees?
To fix yellow leaves on citrus trees, it is important to identify the root cause of the problem. If the tree is overwatered, reduce the frequency of watering and make sure the soil is well-draining.
If the tree lacks nutrients, fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer. If the tree is affected by pests or diseases, treat it with appropriate pesticides or fungicides. Pruning the affected branches and leaves can also help the tree recover.

Hey, I’m Lisa and I’ve been an avid gardener for over 30 years. I love writing, talking and living in the garden! Feel free to connect with me on my socials below