Is there a way to speed up growth?

[fuumarumota]

Hi guys,

I'm growing several trees in pots from seeds, most of them are citrus. I'd like to know if you have any tips and tricks to speed up the growth of young plants in pots. I know it's about providing the plant everything it needs in the proper amounts but still want to hear what you have to say on this topic .

Thank you in advance.

 

[Pat]

You maybe able to increase the growth speed by having the perfect environment for your plants at all times, just the right amount of water, temperature and food could help the plants to produce quicker and grow faster.

 

[Chuck]

There is no magic way to speed up growth if the plants are in the correct environment. And even if there was it would make no difference as to when the tree will start to produce fruit. Size is one thing and maturity another. The age of a tree determines its maturity not its size. An immature tree cannot produce fruit no matter how big it is.

 

[fuumarumota]

Yes, you got good points there. What I'm more interested in is size. I want them to grow fast in terms of size, so I can start working them faster as bonsai trees, don't really care if those trees produce fruit quickly.

Than you guys

 

[Chuck]

Yes, you got good points there. What I'm more interested in is size. I want them to grow fast in terms of size, so I can start working them faster as bonsai trees, don't really care if those trees produce fruit quickly.

Than you guys

You can over fertilize and speed up the rate of growth but only with organic fertilizers and doing this leads to a weak tree. If you use oil based or chemical based nitrates you will most assuredly damage the root system. Are you trying to bonzai citrus or dwarf them?

 

[fuumarumota]

I already have dwarf a pair of orange trees in large pots, and so far they're doing well. I'm trying to bonsai them. I know a fully done bonsai will take years anyway, but I'm looking to speed up the early stages of growth.

Thanks again !

 

[Vinaya]

In my experience if you water your citrus plants with water that has sour taste,it will speed up growth. I don't know whether there is any connection between the citrus plant growth and sour water, but I have grown citrus plants faster when I pour curd whey regularly on citrus plant..

 

[fuumarumota]

Thanks Vinaya, I think that is worth a try. I'll do it and see .

 

[bonsai_ninja]

I'd have to agree with Chuck. Gotta overfertilize with organic fertilizers! Will try out Vinaya's technique as well for my plants.

 

[Corzhens]

The only growth booster is, of course, none other than fertilizer. Depending on the plant, you can use guano or bat's waste, chicken manure, cattle manure, humus (decayed leaves) and not to forget compost. But I will bet on chicken manure for fast growth, Just be sure to dry it for one week before applying, best in the evening. Water it generously in the morning and afternoon for a week. That would ensure fast growth.... I think.

 

[Botanic vista]

Tips to Speed Up Plant Growth in Pots​

Growing plants in pots, especially from seeds, requires attention to several key factors to optimize growth. Here are some practical tips to help speed up the growth of your young plants, including citrus trees:

1. Optimal Environment​

• Light: Ensure your plants receive sufficient light. If natural light is limited, consider using grow lights to provide the necessary spectrum for photosynthesis.
• Temperature: Maintain a consistent and suitable temperature. Most citrus plants thrive in warm conditions, so keep them in a spot where they can stay warm, especially during cooler months.

2. Watering​

• Consistent Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can stress the plants and slow their growth.
• Drainage: Ensure that your pots have good drainage to prevent water accumulation at the roots.

3. Nutrition​

• Fertilization: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to provide essential nutrients. Citrus trees often benefit from additional nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, along with micronutrients like magnesium and iron.
• Organic Matter: Incorporate organic matter into the soil to improve its structure and nutrient-holding capacity.

4. Soil Quality​

• Well-Draining Soil: Use a high-quality potting mix that provides good drainage and aeration. Avoid using garden soil, which can be too dense for potted plants.
• pH Levels: Maintain the appropriate soil pH for your specific plants. Citrus trees, for example, prefer slightly acidic soil.

5. Pruning and Care​

• Regular Pruning: Prune your plants to remove dead or unhealthy growth. This encourages the plant to focus its energy on developing healthy, new growth.
• Pest and Disease Control: Regularly inspect your plants for pests and diseases and treat any issues promptly to prevent them from hindering growth.

6. Patience and Realistic Expectations​

• Maturity vs. Size: Understand that while you can optimize conditions for faster growth, the maturity of the tree, especially for fruiting, is determined by its age, not just its size. An immature tree won’t produce fruit regardless of its size.

By creating an ideal growing environment and providing consistent care, you can help your potted plants grow faster and healthier. While there’s no magic shortcut, these practices will maximize the potential for growth within the natural limitations of each plant.