Tips

How to Choose a Long-Lasting Kumquat Tree for Lunar New Year, Bringing Fortune and Prosperity to Your Home

As the Lunar New Year approaches, many families are on the lookout for the perfect decorative plant to usher in good fortune for the year ahead. In this article, we'll be sharing tips on how to select a thriving kumquat tree, a traditional symbol of luck and prosperity, to adorn your home this festive season.

Administrator

10 July, 2024

The kumquat, phonetically similar to the Chinese word for “good fortune,” is believed to bring prosperity and good luck in the new year. To choose the perfect kumquat tree for the Lunar New Year, read on.

1 How to Choose a Kumquat Tree

Selecting by Tree Shape

Choose a kumquat tree with a natural shape or an artistically pruned one according to feng shui principles.

The first impression of a lucky kumquat tree is often its shape. Depending on your preference and beliefs, you may opt for a tree with a natural shape or one that has been artistically pruned according to feng shui principles. However, ensure that the canopy is well-balanced, the trunk is sturdy, and the branches grow upright.

Selecting by Leaves and Fruits

Avoid trees with small, yellow leaves and small, unattractive fruits.

Once you’re happy with the shape, pay attention to the leaves and fruits. Ideal kumquats are round and not too ripe, with sparse, green leaves. Avoid trees with small, yellow leaves and small, unattractive fruits as they are not only aesthetically unpleasing but also more prone to root rot and wilting.

Examine the fruits carefully before purchasing the tree.

Nowadays, some merchants use artificial kumquats to make their trees appear fuller. Therefore, inspect the fruits carefully to ensure they are real before buying the tree.

Caring for Your Kumquat Tree

Caring for your kumquat tree

After selecting your kumquat tree, be careful when transporting it to avoid damaging the root ball.

Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the root ball with ample drainage holes. This way, you can add more soil without disturbing the existing root ball.

You may also place a layer of coal ash at the bottom of the pot to facilitate drainage and prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot.

Keep the tree slightly moist to maintain its freshness.

When watering your kumquat tree, it is best to use a spray bottle to mist the leaves and roots, keeping them slightly moist.

Reference: Simple Guide to Pruning Kumquat Trees at Home

2 Decorating Your Kumquat Tree

Utilize the empty spaces on the tree to hang red envelopes, coins, or red balls. However, avoid hanging heavy objects that may break the branches or cause leaves and fruits to fall.

Decorate the tree with red envelopes, coins, or other festive items.

Ensure that the decorations are harmonious and not overly flashy or varied, which may create a sense of chaos.

Choose small, twinkling lights to enhance the tree’s appeal without generating too much heat.

Avoid using high-wattage lights as they can cause leaf discoloration and fruit spoilage. Instead, opt for small, twinkling lights to enhance the tree’s appeal without generating too much heat.

By following these tips, you can choose and care for a healthy kumquat tree, bringing “good fortune” and happiness to your home this Lunar New Year. Wishing you and your family joy, happiness, and success in the year ahead!

Frequently asked questions

Selecting a kumquat tree with a straight, sturdy trunk and healthy, vibrant leaves is key. Avoid trees with yellowing or wilting leaves, as these indicate poor health. Also, check for pests and diseases, ensuring the tree is free from any infestations. A good root system is vital, so look for a tree with a substantial root ball and healthy, white roots.

Kumquat trees are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to your home during the Lunar New Year celebrations. The trees symbolize longevity, and their vibrant colors and fragrant blossoms add to the festive atmosphere. Additionally, the sweet and sour kumquat fruits are considered a delicacy and can be used in various dishes and beverages.

Proper care is essential to ensure the longevity of your kumquat tree. Place the tree in a sunny location, preferably by a window, to ensure it receives adequate sunlight. Water the tree regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Feed your kumquat tree with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.

Kumquat trees are relatively easy to care for, but there are a few cultural practices to keep in mind. Pruning is important to maintain the tree’s shape and encourage new growth. Prune your kumquat tree after the Lunar New Year celebrations, as it is considered bad luck to prune the tree during this time. Also, consider repotting the tree every two to three years to provide fresh soil and nutrients.

Common pests include scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Diseases to watch for are root rot, caused by overwatering, and citrus canker, which affects the tree’s leaves and fruits. Remove affected parts and treat with a suitable fungicide.