Kaffir Lime Care – Graft Location
by Kasma Loha-unchit
5. Know Where the Graft is on Your Kaffir Lime
So, its' very important that you take notice where the graft is on the plant you purchased (usually a few inches above soil level; you'll notice a change in the color and texture of the bark)) and NEVER allow any growth to come from below the graft. When a vigorous branch appears all of a sudden from the lower part of the tree, check the leaves and make sure they are double and have that unique kaffir lime fragrance; if not, cut the branch off immediately! Don't be curious thinking that the branch will eventually mature into kaffir lime like the other branches, 'cuz every minute you allow it to stay on, this monster will zap the energy and strangle the dear life out of its true kaffir lime partner. If you are vigilant during the critical period of your plant's adjustment to your garden, the monster will eventually resign itself to the darkness of its underground dungeon and do what it does best in the underworld.
Once your kaffir lime plant has matured and developed a good woody branch structure above the graft, the monster will have been tamed and will not surface again unless your plant is badly stressed by poor care, adverse environmental conditions, or complete neglect.
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