"The reason to remove the soil was so that the drainage and moisture retention would be consistant throughout the medium. The concern was that a mass of dense potting soil would not get wet enough (or would possibly stay too wet), as the water rushed through the faster draining CHCs or bark mix surrounding the old root ball/soil mass. But, with all the repotting I've done, I've seen that the roots naturally reach out, grow through and surround all the CHCs/bark with astounding speed. So the possible watering problem (by not removing old soil) has *not* manifested itself. The plant fills the new pot rapidly with healthy roots and gets nourishment and moisture easily. " Lisa: we are in sync of the reasoning why I have not done so removing the soil of the old pot. I believe that the citrus roots will seek out the moisture/water for survival so if the water is in the new sorrounding CHC mixture the plant will send out new roots to seek where the water is in a hurry. So in no time you have a tremendous new roots going everywhere for water search. I believe the plant can sense where the water is. A case in point- roots imbedded in the sewer joints inside the pipe. Also I've seen roots that travel 5 to 8 times its height.

Thay, where is SLC? LOL..Sorry. Unless you're in CA, three terrific places to buy citrus are www.briteleaf.com and www.harricitrus.com and www.acornsprings.com If you're in CA, then try www.fourwinds.com though I believe they only sell dwarfs. A basic light can be purchased at a hardware store like Home Depot. Shop lights w/2 flourescent bulbs..either 2 Gro Lights or One cool, one warm white bulbs. Citrus or Azalea foods are best. Since these are meant to be used once every three months, you can add either Miracid or Miracle Gro in-between. South and west windows in winter are best..a summer outdoors should be considered. Watering and soil are also important. You want to water only when soil feels crumbly..too much water and it'll cause root rot. And the soil should be well-draining. Therefore, when you water, you want it to drain freely. Humidity is important..So, purchase a humidifer and mist leaves daily. Always inspect a plant for pests upon arrival. Bugs will deveour a plant like a Charlie Brown Christmas tree..LOL I guess that's about it..it sounds a lot more complicated than it really is..Once you get the hang, it's one easy task..Toni

My setup that worked wonders. You can also do this in a closet with a pole lamp or hanging lamp. You will need to remove most of the fruit. If there are no leaves then all the fruit must go. You also have your area listed as zone 9a but you live in Canada. Is this possible. Steve

Steve, you crack me up...lol Just put aluminum foil around the buckets and you will have shiny ones too) Rene, now that your trees are outside they will grow back leaves suited for summer. You gained leaves that are use to lights not the sun and that is why you shedded the darker older ones. They should grow back. Becareful though not to put your trees right back into the sun right away or they will burn off. They actually look pretty good for being held up indoors for so long. Hope you are not in stoe for another winter blast like we are here in good ole New England( As for the bugs, I use Neem oil mixed with a bit if natural soapy water and drown/suffoctae the buggers. Not sure whay they are, too hard to tell. Did you use outside soil, or a bagged sterile mix? What kind of soil is that?