Growing Citrus: Lemons, Oranges, Limes, and More in Containers or Ground

Though Citrus is subtropical, northern gardeners can grow lemons, oranges, and other citrus in containers for fresh fruit. Standard orange/grapefruit trees reach 18–22 ft; dwarfs 8–12 ft. Most are self-fertile—one tree suffices. Fruit bearing begins at 3–6 years, varying by type, cultivar, climate, plant health, and care. Flowering occurs during warm weather and regular rain; flowers and fruit may coincide.

Planting

• Sunny, wind-protected site.
• In citrus belt: plant anytime; spring best for containers.
• Standard trees: 12–25 ft apart; dwarfs: 6–10 ft. Distance varies by variety—larger fruit needs more space.
• Poor drainage? Plant on a slight mound to prevent waterlogging.
• From seed: remove seeds from fruit. Soak overnight. Plant ½ inch deep in moist potting soil. Cover pot with plastic bag/wrap. Warm, sunny spot for weeks until germination. Then remove plastic; keep near warm, sunny window.

Care

• First few years (pre-bearing): feed balanced fertilizer (e.g., 6-6-6) a few weeks after planting.
• Newly bearing: provide nutrients for branch/leaf growth and to replace fruit-depleted nutrients. Citrus blend ideal.
• Follow manufacturer's directions or ask nursery for application rates/timing per growth year.
• Mulch not recommended for citrus. If in mulched bed, keep 12+ inches bare ground between trunk and mulch. Pre-emergent herbicides can prevent weed seeds.
• Fruit thinning unnecessary.

Pests and Diseases

• Aphids
• Spider Mites
• Root and Crown Rots
• Fungal Leaf Spots
• Fruit Flies
• Tristeza Virus (spread by aphids)

Harvest and Storage

• Fruit ripens in 6–8 months depending on climate.
• Best ripeness indicator: taste.
• Harvest by cutting with pruning shears or pulling fruit stalk.
• Undamaged fruit stores several weeks at cool temperatures.

Recommended Varieties

• Limes: 'Bearss', 'Rangpur'
• Sour Oranges: 'Bouquet de Fleurs', 'Seville'
• Lemons: 'Eureka', 'Sun Gold'
• Grapefruits: 'Red Blush' (pink), 'Marsh Seedless' (white), 'Star Ruby' (red)
• Mandarins: 'Clementine', 'Satsuma'
• Tangelos: 'Minneola', 'Orlando'
• Sweet Oranges: 'Valencia', 'Ruby' (Blood), 'Washington' (Navel)

Wit & Wisdom

DIY air freshener: Simmer lemon slices in water ~1 hour.