Image Credit: FreepikAs the mongo season is drifting away, the goodbye to the king of fruits can be hard, but this is your time to be prepared for the next season. No, no, do not buy and freeze the mangos, but learn how to grow them in your home garden and, most importantly, in a pot.
For those with a penchant for home gardening but restrained by space, growing fruit trees in pots presents a viable and delightful solution. Here are five fruit trees that not only thrive in containers but also demand minimal maintenance, making them perfect for urban gardeners.
Here are 5 low maintenance fruit trees to grow in pots:
Mango
Mango trees are a fantastic addition to any container garden. With the right care, they can easily be grown in pots and require minimal effort to maintain.
Use well-drained soil which is rich in organic matter. This ensures the roots get the nutrients they need without waterlogging. Mongo trees need at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Place the pot in a sunny spot for them to grow healthy.
Mango trees can withstand temperatures up to 48°C, making them resilient in hot weather. Keep the soil moist. During summer, water is used two times a day, and in monsoon water, it is used when the topsoil feels dry.
Nutrients in pots deplete fast. Add animal manure every 20 days throughout the year to keep it healthy.
Image Credit: Freepik
Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit is low maintenance and perfect for container gardening. Starting from cuttings, it requires minimal attention once it is planted.
Use sandy soil enriched with organic matter to provide the right balance of nutrients and drainage. It needs 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. It can tolerate temperatures up to 43°C, making it suitable for warmer climates. As a cactus family member, water only when topsoil is dry to avoid overwatering it. Add animal manure (cow or goat) once a month to keep the plant nourished.
Image Credit: Freepik
Calamondin Oranges
Calamondin oranges produce vibrant fruits and are perfect for small spaces like balconies and terraces. For this, well-drained soil rich in organic matter should be used to support the health and growth of the plant. Place in a location with natural bright light, but protect from harsh direct sunlight to prevent leaf damage. It can handle temperatures up to 32°C, and water is only needed when the topsoil is dry. Add animal manure once a month for nutrient needs.
Image Credit: Freepik
Water Apple
Grab the crispy and watery apple just from your home garden. The water apple is easy to grow and maintain. For this, use well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It needs 6-8 hours of sunlight; direct sunlight is best for growth. It can handle temperatures up to 35°C. Make sure the soil is moist and water regularly. Avoid letting the plant go dry. Most importantly, during the flowering and fruiting time. Add animal manure once a month for rapid growth.
Star Fruit
Star fruit trees add beauty to your garden with their glossy fruits and lovely clusters of flowers. Use well-drained, sandy soil rich in organic matter. Ensure the plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Image Credit: Freepik
The morning sun is particularly beneficial. It can tolerate temperatures up to 35°C. Regular watering is essential to keep the plant healthy. Add animal manure once a month to provide the necessary nutrients.