orange tree problem

I grew an orange tree from a pip in 2000.
Up to 2006 it was in a Sth facing window and grew beautifully.
For the past 2 years my brother has had it. He kept it in a Sth facing window but with the curtains closed 90% of the time. It seemed OK though grew slowly.
Then about 3 weeks ago it shed all it's leaves.
I've taken it back, replaced it into the Sth window and pruned off the dead branches. I have also placed a 'sylvania gro-lux' tube above it. It has sprouted 2 shoots from the trunk and they are growing very slowly.
It is obviously alive but seems weak. The brother also fed it a few times as the leaves fell, so it is possible that it is overfed.
Anybody please any tips as to what will help it?

 

Hello hercules and welcome to GC.

I have never grown citrus trees in the UK but do grow them here but outdoors so I really can't help you with your problem.

Here is a link which may be of benefit until someone can come along and advise you.

http://www.fourwindsgrowers.com/growing/houseplants.html

Good luck!

 

Thanks for that.

 

Hi Hercules, sounds to me like the poor old thing has had a bit of a tough time

I cant imagine it would like living in a window with the curtains closed for most of the time.

Do you think it might have been overwatered, is it very wet?

I dont think you really need to use a gro light at this time of the year.

Think, I would just keep it on the dry side for a while, not dust dry, and let it recover at its own pace.

 

Thanks a million for that Pete. I'll follow your instructions on the watering - let it be on the dry side - I have kept it well watered, I know they drink a lot but will do as you say. It's 2 shoots are OK but growing very slowly.