How to Grow a Miniature Orange Tree
For centuries, miniature orange trees have been grown indoors where they would not survive the winter outdoors. You don't need a greenhouse to grow a lush, healthy, miniature orange tree--just a window with southern exposure or even a high-quality grow light.
The Calamondin Orange is one variety that grows exceptionally well indoors and consistently produces edible fruit. You can eat the entire orange--rind and all--from this variety of miniature orange.
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Things You'll Need
- Miniature orange tree Large pot (2 to 3 feet in diameter) Rocks for drainage Indoor potting soil Fertilizer Watering can or hose
Instructions
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Choose a dwarf variety of orange such as a Calamondin Orange.
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Place a 2- to 3-inch layer of rocks in the bottom of the large pot.
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Put a 3- to 6-inch layer of soil on top of the rocks in the bottom of pot.
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Carefully remove the orange tree from its container. Place on the top of the soil in the bottom of the large pot.
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Add more potting soil around the root ball. Do not change the level of soil around the trunk of the tree.
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Place your miniature orange tree in a window with southern exposure or in a greenhouse. If grown with enough light, it should bloom and grow fruit twice a year.
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Water your plant frequently. Check daily and water when the soil feels dry just below the surface.
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During spring and summer, feed the tree monthly with a high-acid fertilizer. During fall and winter, feed every two to three months.
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Tips & Warnings
Move your orange tree outside during the summer months to let the bugs pollinate the flowers. Put your orange tree on a small "plant dolly" to more easily move it. Plant dollies are available at garden centers.
Citrus trees are not reliably hardy and will most likely be killed by frost. Bring indoors when nighttime lows drop into the 40's (Fahrenheit).
