How to care for your Chinotto Bonsai

How to care for your Chinotto Bonsai

Our tips for helping it grow healthy and strong

The Chinotto, scientifically known as Citrus myrtifolia, is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region. We chose to include it in our collection for its beauty and unique charm, making it a special addition to both gardens and indoor spaces.

The right spot

The Chinotto prefers a spot in full sun, but can also tolerate light shade. It's important to make sure it gets plenty of light to encourage lush growth and abundant flowering.

Illustration: place the Chinotto near a window with indirect light
The right spot for your plant

When and how to water it

During summer, we recommend watering the Chinotto every 7 days, while every 14 days is enough in winter. It is essential to water thoroughly and let the soil dry out between waterings. Always check the top 2-3 cm of soil: if it's dry, it's time to water.

Annual watering calendar for the Chinotto, with different frequencies in summer and winter
The watering schedule throughout the year

Temperature and humidity

The Chinotto thrives in temperatures between 10°C and 30°C, but can tolerate temperatures as low as -5°C and as high as 35°C. The ideal humidity is moderate, between 40% and 60%.

Thermometer showing the ideal temperature range and humidity level for the Chinotto
Comfortable temperature and humidity

The right fertilizer

During spring and summer, we recommend fertilizing the Chinotto every 30 days with a balanced fertilizer specifically for citrus. This will help keep the plant healthy and vigorous.

The pot and soil

For the Chinotto, well-draining soil is essential, preferably a mix of sand, potting soil, and organic matter. The ideal pH is around 6. Make sure the pot has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

How to propagate it

The Chinotto can be propagated through cuttings or grafting. The best time to propagate is spring, using semi-hardwood cuttings. It is moderately difficult, but with a little patience, you can grow new plants.

Our final tip

With the right care, the Chinotto can bring great rewards. Remember to regularly check the soil moisture and provide adequate light exposure. With a little attention, your Chinotto will be a joy to behold and a delight to the heart.

— The Gardens of Giulia

Verified care information

This information comes directly from the verified botanical record used to generate the guide.

Light
High · Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Watering
7 days in summer · 14 days in winter · Water deeply and allow the soil to dry between waterings. · Check the top 2-3 cm of soil; if dry, water the plant.
Temperature
10 °C ideal minimum · 30 °C ideal maximum · -5 °C minimum tolerated · 35 °C maximum tolerated
Humidity
Moderate · 40% minimum · 60% maximum
Fertilizing
Balanced citrus fertilizer · Spring and summer · 30 days
Propagation
Cuttings, Grafting · Moderate · Best propagated in spring using semi-hardwood cuttings.