Overwintering Citrus Trees in Cold Climates: Why Indoor Protection Is Essential

Citrus Cannot Survive Hard Freezes

An 8-ft orange tree in Connecticut (Zone 6) will die if left outside, even under an overhang with plastic wrap. Citrus tolerates only light frost (briefly to 28 °F / -2 °C).

Required Action

Move the tree indoors for winter. Place in the sunniest window (south-facing). Keep at 55–65 °F (13–18 °C). Water when top 2 inches dry. No fertilizer until spring.

Pruning

Trim to fit the space before moving in. Remove dead wood. Citrus doesn't need dormancy—it will keep growing slowly indoors.