Choisya, often called the "Mexican Orange Blossom," is a splendid choice for garden enthusiasts seeking to add a touch of elegance and fragrance to their garden. Its aromatic leaves and clusters of delicate white flowers create a stunning visual and sensory experience. Easy to care for and versatile in various garden settings, Choisya is the perfect choice for both novice and experienced gardeners looking to add a touch of charm to their landscape.
Planting Calendar
Plant Choisya in the warmer months of the year.
Prepare
A compact, rounded bush that carries a unique and pleasant fragrance. It boasts attractive deep-green leaves adorned with clusters of charming white flowers. Whether you're looking to create a beautiful hedge or fill in gaps in your garden, this evergreen and hardy plant is a fantastic choice.
Position
Choisya can be grown in full sun to partial shade.
Soil
When planted into the ground Choisya prefers a free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains Saturaid, which helps with moisture retention in the soil.
Plant
When planting into the ground, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets, then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
Care
Watering
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods.
Feeding
When planted in the ground liquid feed every month with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health. If planted into a container, feed with Kings Liquid Fast Food along with monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster this encourages strong roots and a healthy immune system.
Mulching
Mulch around the base of the plants (making sure it is not in direct contact with the trunk) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Mulching helps to reduce weeds as well as aiding the soil to lock moisture in the ground.
Pruning
Trim only if needed to restrict or re-shape growth, or to shorten leggy stems. Prune in early to mid summer, immediately after flowering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Choisya?
Choisya, also known as Mexican Orange Blossom, is an evergreen shrub with fragrant white flowers and glossy green leaves. It's known for its pleasant citrus scent and attractive foliage.
How often should I water Choisya?
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods.
When does Choisya bloom?
Choisya typically blooms in late spring to early summer, with a second flush of flowers sometimes appearing in late summer or early autumn.
How do I prune Choisya?
Trim only if needed to restrict or re-shape growth, or to shorten leggy stems. Prune in early to mid summer, immediately after flowering.
What pests and diseases affect Choisya?
Choisya is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, and root rot if the soil is poorly drained. Regular monitoring and proper care can help prevent these issues.