CITRUS aurantiifolia (LIME)

Description:Common name: Mexican Lime Tree. Citrus are relatively easy plants to grow if simple rules are followed. Once followed they reward you with strongly scented flowers. Lime trees form large shrub / small tree. Strongly fragrant white flowers are freely produced from Spring to Summer

Uses: Great grown in a container. Produces tart citrus fruit the size of a golf ball, ripening between September and December

Climate/Position: During summer stand lime plants outside in a sheltered spot, gradually moving the plant into full sun. When the weather cools in the late autumn bring the plants in to an unheated, well-ventilated conservatory or greenhouse

Height/Spread: Height 2-3 metres. Spread 1.5-2 metres. Although limited by the size of the container they are grown in

Soil Requirements: Well drained potting compost. Refresh soil every 3 years or so

Pruning: Cut the canopy back by a third each year and remove any damaged or dead stems. Thin fruit out

Special Requirements: Water thoroughly during the growing season but do not allow to stand in water. Feed throughout the growing season with summer citrus feed. Water sparingly in winter months and feed with winter citrus feed. Repot every few years. Plants can lose leaves after having been moved inside or outside for the season due to temperature change. Fruit can be thinned to improve quality as they can take up to a year to reach maturity

Additional Interest: Citrus flowers are rich in nectar and pollen, making them highly attractive to pollinators like bees