How to Prune Miniature Citrus Trees
Sometimes called dwarf citrus trees, miniature citrus trees offer the benefits of a standard-sized citrus tree on a smaller scale that's perfect for container growing. Citrus provider Acorn Springs notes that its drawf trees will grow 10 to 12 feet if never pruned, but can be kept at 4 to 5 feet with careful trimming. Dwarf citrus can be moved indoors in cold temperatures, making it an ideal citrus tree for those in less temperate climates. Dwarf citrus trees still provide fragrant blossoms and delicious fruit. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Inspect your miniature citrus tree's branches for signs of dead or damaged branches. They will need to be removed immediately for the health of the tree. Clip off dead or damaged branches using the bonsai pruners. Place clippings in a garbage bag and throw them out.
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Clean the bonsai pruners with a disinfectant spray so you don't spread bacteria. Dry the pruners thoroughly before continuing.
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Remove lateral or upward growing branches to allow more light into the canopy. This is critical if you want sweet, colorful and pleasant tasting citrus fruit. Thinning out the canopy also allows more air to circulate through the tree, which helps to prevent disease.
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Identify the site of rootstock grafting, which will appear as a diagonal scar less than 1 foot above the soil line. Clip off any shoots growing below the grafting site.
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Remove weak branches or branches that are growing downward. Cut off competitive leader shoots so the tree develops an even, strong shape as it grows.
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Snip the tips of new growth to encourage continued growth.
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Thin out the citrus fruit when it is chestnut-sized by removing the majority of fruits growing from a cluster. Aim to have no more than two citrus fruits hanging from a cluster. This improves the flavor of the fruits that do grow and helps prevent young wood from breaking.
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Tips & Warnings
Move container trees outdoors in the spring and summer; move them back inside during cold seasons.
Do not plant dwarf citrus tree in the ground if you live in hardiness zones 1 to 8.
