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Caring For Your Indoor Fruit Tree In Winter

By: Jim Hofman

There are a few important care instructions for indoor fruit trees as they navigate through the winter months. Their growth cycle slows somewhat, which is very normal and natural. The main issue with indoor fruit trees is making sure they're prepared for the warmer months, when their normal growth cycle resumes and when they typically produce crops of fruit.

Pests - The Enemies of Your Indoor Fruit Tree

There are certain pests that can wreak havoc on your indoor fruit tree, namely spider mites and vinegar flies. Of the two, spider mites are worse, but you can typically use some preventive care to keep both away. If you thought pests were only active in summer, just remember pests like your warm home during the winter just as much as you do!

One of the worst things about both spider mites and vinegar flies is that they are so small, they're hard to see. Spider mites in particular are so small that you'll often notice the damage they cause before you ever see a mite. If you start to see any damage on your fruit tree, place a sheet of white paper underneath a few leaves, and tap down on the tops of those leaves. If you see what looks like ground pepper that actually starts walking, you've unfortunately got spider mites. The best way to rid yourself of these pests is a horticultural oil or citrus based oil product. Simply spray on the leaves, and that should resolve the problem.

Vinegar flies are more of an annoyance than a harmful pest, but simple precautions will prevent them from flitting around your tree. Just be sure to remove anything that's rotting or decaying, specifically split open fruit, dead leaves, or dead wood. Another factor is to make sure you avoid over watering your tree, as this causes moist soil. Vinegar flies prefer overly moist soil, especially soil that's consistently over moist.

Watering During Winter

While you'll need to water your indoor fruit tree somewhat less frequently during winter months, watering is still a necessity. The best time to water is when the soil is almost completely dry. Due to lack of humidity, it's best to keep a closer eye on the soil during winter. The tree itself may require less water due to a slower winter growth cycle and less evaporation. Typically you'll need to water your tree weekly. If the soil is still moist after 10 days, you'll want to check for drainage problems. Remember, lack of drainage is probably the #1 reason should your tree have problems or fail to produce fruit.

More Tips

There are just a few other tips to help your indoor fruit tree survive and thrive during the winter. First, make sure to remove any blooms which are wilting or brown. Next, prune any dead branches or stems. Finally, do your absolute best to keep the container temperature at or above 65 degrees. Sometimes rooms get colder than you think, and soil tempertures in containers are usually 10 degrees lower than air temperatures. There's nothing wrong with using slightly warm water to help raise the soil temperature, if necessary.

With just a little care, your indoor fruit tree will happily exist during winter, and be ready for a vibrant, thriving spring and summer. Monitor the condition of your tree, and be sure to treat any condition that may occur. Caring for your tree in the winter is critical for a healthy, productive tree bearing you generous fruit for years to come.

Article Source: Main Articles

With proper winter care, Indoor Fruit Trees will yield a healthy, productive crop of fruit. For more information, care tips, and recommendations, be sure to visit our comprehensive resource center for Indoor Fruit Trees .

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