The Tropical Fruit Forum

Citrus => Cold Hardy Citrus => Topic started by: poncirsguy on January 12, 2021, 08:51:53 PM

Title: new growth pointed down
Post by: poncirsguy on January 12, 2021, 08:51:53 PM

All the shoots on my Fukushu kumquat turn down as they grow.  Anyone know why. They are very stiff so water is not a problem.

(https://i.postimg.cc/ctBHQMvx/IMG-0008.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/ctBHQMvx)

(https://i.postimg.cc/jnXDkFNw/IMG-0011.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/jnXDkFNw)

Title: Re: new growth pointed down
Post by: kumin on January 12, 2021, 09:31:20 PM

Is your strongest light source above the tree? Strong light from a lateral source could cause this. Bright light from a window would be one example.
It's also not unusual for the very succulent apical growing point to temporarily droop until the stem tissue gets a chance to harden off a bit. The stem a few inches behind the growing point appears to have already stiffened up considerably.

Title: Re: new growth pointed down
Post by: Millet on January 12, 2021, 09:33:22 PM

All branches turn down sooner or later.

Title: Re: new growth pointed down
Post by: poncirsguy on January 13, 2021, 08:55:42 AM

The 9 watt LED screw in bulb is overhead 8 inches from the tip of the tree.  I wouldn't care but the tree hits the side of the bucket and grows upside down.

(https://i.postimg.cc/BXzzj18w/IMG-1884.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/BXzzj18w)

Title: Re: new growth pointed down
Post by: kumin on January 13, 2021, 09:30:39 AM

If the aesthetics aren't an issue, a pliable, ridgid wire could be used for training purposes, as in bonsai. This would only be needed until the stem lignifies a bit

Title: Re: new growth pointed down
Post by: poncirsguy on January 13, 2021, 05:57:34 PM

Kumin  Thank you  I'll do that