Large Kucle

Like all citrus trees, this plant loves light. Kucle can tolerate temperatures as low as -4 °C but will do best in this country near a window in a bright cool room or conservatory kept above 5°C, and where you can enjoy their colourful display of fruit. Keep your plant away from any radiators or cold draughts as it will not be happy in these conditions.

Run 2L of water from the top of the soil when it is bone dry and let the excess water drain away. You might find it needs watering almost every day when it is hot in the summer but as little as once a fortnight in winter. It will depend on the weather and how warm your room is. The roots should not stand in water, so it is always best to water these plants on the draining board and wait for the water to drain before placing back in the usual position.

In the height of summer your plant will appreciate a holiday. Put it outside on a sheltered patio or balcony and it will enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. Bring it back inside when there is a nip in the evening air. Don’t worry if the soil feels dry on top - the most common cause of problems is watering too frequently in the winter months when the plant is resting.

The fruit are ready to harvest once they are completely orange, and like a kumquat you can eat the skin too. They are deliciously tart to start finishing with a clementine aftertaste. With the right conditions your Kucle tree will produce small, fragrant flowers in the spring.

Problem solving

Sudden changes in environment, under or over watering can all cause leaf drop however with a return to regular watering and a stable temperature they will usually recover well.

Mouldy flowers is a sign that your plant is either over watered or in too damp a spot, try a sunnier position and leaving longer between watering. For more information about your Kucle or our other plants (including a citrus care video) visit www.plants4presents.co.uk or call 01825 721162