Question 1

How long does it take for a kumquat tree to bear fruit?

Accepted Answer

Kumquats are small, round fruits with an edible orange-colored skin and white flesh. They grow on the trees that are native to southeast Asia. A kumquat tree can grow up to six feet in height, although most varieties have a height of about three to four feet. Kumquat trees are easy to grow from seed. The tree can be pruned to shape and trained to a garden trellis or fence. Kumquats are available year round, but you’ll want to plant them in spring to enjoy the best harvest. Planting Instructions Kumquats need a lot of sunshine, so be sure to plant them in full sun. Plant them 12 inches deep and 30 inches apart. They will grow into a bushy shrub. Fruit trees have a wide variety of pests and diseases that can affect the fruit production. Soil type, planting conditions, climate, and other factors can influence the pest and disease risk for your kumquat.
They take usually about 18 months to bear fruit.

Question 2

When should I feed my kumquat tree?

Accepted Answer

The best time to feed your kumquat tree is right before flowering. Cut off the blossoms, but leave about an inch of stem on each branch. This will encourage a new set of blossoms. Kumquats are very picky about their soil and sun. They like it warm, but not hot. The ideal soil temperature is 75°F to 85°F. If you live in a cooler climate, it may take more sunlight.

Question 3

How do you prune a kumquat?

Accepted Answer

I like to cut the kumquat back hard, then wait until it stops producing new growth. This usually takes a couple of weeks, but if you don't prune your kumquat you'll probably lose most of the fruit before then. You can then cut off all the side branches and the top of the tree. 

The best time to pick kumquats is in late summer or early fall. You can store them for up to two months in the refrigerator. They keep really well, so you can make some delicious fresh-tasting jelly with them.

Question 4

What is the best fertilizer for kumquat?

Accepted Answer

I've been growing them for a few years now, and the best fertilizer I've found is a mix of:

1. 2 parts Miracle Grow (available in any garden store)

2. 1 part Fish Emulsion (available at any pet store)

3. 1 part Liquid kelp (available at any pet store)

4. 5 parts Epsom salts Mix these together and apply to your plants every month or so.

Question 5

Can you transplant a kumquat tree?

Accepted Answer

If the tree is still growing and healthy, yes. You can cut it back to about 8 inches and then plant the new one. The new tree should be at least 4 inches taller than the old one. You could also transplant them as soon as they are big enough, but that will be more work.

Question 6

Do kumquat trees grow fast?

Accepted Answer

A kumquat can grow up to 8 feet per year. That sounds pretty fast! And it is. But that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the fastest growing fruit tree.