Will Lime Trees Grow Well in Flower Pots?

Dwarf and standard lime trees can grow in containers.

Gardeners all over the country can have a backyard citrus tree by growing lime trees in pots. Container-grown trees can soak up summer sun, then move indoors for the winter. Lime trees do well in pots.

Types

Gardeners who want to grow container lime trees have several options. Both standard and dwarf lime trees grow in containers, as do key limes.

Container

California Rare Fruit Growers suggests growing standard lime trees in half whiskey barrels, since these containers are large enough to provide support for the tree roots. When choosing a container for your lime tree, make sure it has drainage holes at the bottom so water can leach out. Dwarf lime trees do well in containers that are 12 inches in diameter.

Care

Lime trees need enough water to grow properly, and container trees often suffer from poor watering practices. To keep your tree healthy, allow the surface of the soil to dry out thoroughly, then water the tree until the soil becomes saturated. This ensures that the roots get sufficient water. Trees also need eight hours of light per day.

References

• California Rare Fruit Growers: Growing Fruit Crops in Containers
• Four Winds Growers: Growing Citrus in Containers