Hello Lykkers! If you’re a fan of unique houseplants, then Buddha’s Hand (also known as Buddha’s Finger or Five-Fingered Citron) might be your new favorite!

This evergreen tree from the citrus family is not only visually stunning but also boasts health benefits, like refreshing your mind and aiding digestion.

However, caring for it requires more than just placing it in a sunny corner. In this article, we’ll share some tips and tricks to help you grow your Buddha’s Hand successfully while avoiding common pitfalls.

Buddha's Hand Citron: The Fragrant Fruit with Incredible Benefits

video by Remedies Guru

Strong Sunlight Exposure

One of the most common mistakes we can make when growing Buddha’s Hand is exposing it to direct, intense sunlight. While it thrives in warm and sunny environments, direct sunlight can burn its leaves, stunting its growth.

Tip: Place your Buddha’s Hand on a balcony that faces east, south, or west, where it can get bright, indirect light. In summer, when the sun is particularly strong, it’s a good idea to use shade nets or move the plant to a spot where it gets filtered sunlight. This will keep the plant happy and thriving without the risk of leaf scorch.

Improper Soil Mix

The soil we use is crucial for healthy plant growth, and Buddha’s Hand is no different. If we don’t choose the right mix, it can lead to poor growth or even plant death.

Tip: We recommend using a soil mix made up of garden soil, leaf mold, and sand in a 4:4:2 ratio. This combination provides good drainage while retaining just enough moisture, which is ideal for Buddha’s Hand. Be sure to check that the pot has drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.

Over or Under-Watering

Watering is a balancing act. Too much or too little water can damage your Buddha’s Hand. The key is to adjust watering based on the seasons and the weather conditions.

Tip: During spring, keep the soil slightly moist. In early summer, water it once in the afternoon. In the height of summer, the evaporation rate is high, so water twice a day (once in the morning and once in the evening), and mist the leaves for added humidity. As temperatures drop in fall, cut back on watering, and in winter, let the soil dry out slightly between waterings, but don’t let it dry completely.

Fertilizing the Plant

Buddha’s Hand enjoys nutrients, but fertilizing it incorrectly can cause root burn or yellow leaves. The secret is to feed it regularly but with the right amount of fertilizer.

Tip: From March to May, use diluted organic fertilizer or compost tea. In June to August, increase the concentration slightly with a balanced fertilizer. During the fruiting and flowering period (July to September), reduce nitrogen fertilizer and switch to calcium and potassium to help the fruits develop well. The rule of thumb is to apply "light and frequent" doses of fertilizer to avoid overfeeding.

Neglecting Propagation and Pruning

Regular pruning and occasional propagation are essential to keeping your Buddha’s Hand plant healthy and aesthetically pleasing. Neglecting these practices can lead to an overcrowded or unhealthy plant.

Tip: In early spring, before new shoots start growing, take cuttings from healthy 1- to 2-year-old branches for propagation. Prune back any dense, crossed, or unhealthy branches regularly to ensure the plant remains well-ventilated and receives adequate light, encouraging new growth and maintaining its shape.

Happy Growing!

By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can cultivate a healthy and thriving Buddha’s Hand plant. With the right care, you’ll not only have a beautiful green addition to your home but also a plant that produces golden, aromatic fruits. Remember to give it the right amount of light, water, soil, and attention, and your Buddha’s Hand will reward you for years to come. Happy gardening, Lykkers!