Diverse Fingered Citron

Description

🌱 Diverse Fingered Citron (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis) – Growing Conditions

The Diverse Fingered Citron, often called Buddha’s Hand, is a unique and fragrant citrus variety prized for its ornamental, culinary, and cultural value. It produces fruit with multiple “fingers” resembling a hand, and a strong lemony scent.

☀️ Light Requirements:

Prefers full sun (6–8 hours daily).

Can tolerate partial shade but will fruit best in bright, direct sunlight.

🌡️ Temperature:

Thrives in warm, frost-free climates.

Ideal temperature: 18–30°C.

Protect from temperatures below 5°C—can be grown in pots and moved indoors during cold seasons.

🪴 Soil:

Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5–7).

Enrich with organic compost or well-rotted manure.

A mix of loamy garden soil, compost, and coarse sand or perlite is ideal in pots.

💧 Watering:

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.

Water deeply and allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings.

Reduce watering in cooler months.

🌬️ Humidity & Air Circulation:

Prefers moderate humidity.

Ensure good air flow around the plant to prevent fungal issues.

🌸 Fertilizer:

Feed every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer) with a balanced citrus fertilizer.

High-potassium feed during fruiting improves yield and aroma.

🪚 Pruning & Care:

Prune to shape and remove dead or crossing branches.

Can be grown in containers or open ground.

May require hand-pollination in indoor or low-bee areas.

📏 Growth Habit:

Small to medium shrub or tree.

Typically reaches 1.5–3 meters tall when mature in pots; larger in the ground.