How to Grow a Citrus Fruit Plant
Dwarf citrus varieties make it possible to grow real, fruiting citrus trees in a container, even in climates far too cold for citrus to survive outdoors year-round.
Choosing the Right Variety
Dwarf Meyer lemon, calamondin orange, and kumquat are among the most popular citrus varieties for container growing, staying compact while still producing full-sized or near-full-sized fruit. Buying a grafted, already-established young tree from a nursery gives far faster results than starting from seed.
A large container with excellent drainage and a well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix suits citrus far better than a standard all-purpose soil.
Citrus trees need at least six to eight hours of bright light daily to fruit well — a sunny south-facing window or a spot outdoors in warm weather is essential.
Seasonal Care
Move container citrus outdoors for summer once frost danger has passed, then bring it back inside well before the first fall frost, since even a light freeze can damage or kill the tree. Feeding with a citrus-specific fertilizer during the growing season keeps the tree supplied with the micronutrients it especially needs.
