Question
Hello:
I bought a beautiful small chinotto orange about two months ago, I plant the tree in a big pot with organic potting soil, and the tree is placed in my front yard in a sunny/part shade location.  I was told to water the plant thoroughly and allow the surface of the soil to dry between waterings.  the tree was doing okay  but in the past few days i notice the tree is dropping leaves, some leaves turn a bit yellow and the little white flower are dropping too.
lately we have lots of rain, high wind, and cold temperature.  ( i live in the SF bay area and it's kind of unusual to have this kind of weather in late march to april)
I stop watering the plant now  because we are expected to get more rain and i am afraid my plant be drowned.
I am not sure if i am doing something wrong or because of the bad weather?
If the condition is caused by the bad weather what can i do to protect it?

thank you for your advice.

Min

Answer
Min:
It is important that the soil and pot have sufficient drainage. Extended periods of soggy soil can lead to root rots and other problems.  Leaf drop/yellow leaves can be indicators of root related problems.  Consider carfully removing the plant from the pot and looking at the roots.  They should be whitish/cream colored, not black.  Gently pull on a few of the smaller roots.  If they break off or strip apart, this may be also an indication of root problems.  In that can, replacement may be an options.

Regards
steve