Do you want to grow healthy Persian limes? If so, use this guide for helpful tips and insight into Persian lime tree fertilization, maintenance and care.
Margaritas, Mojitos, Mexican beer, Diet Coke, water.
No, we are not talking about happy hour. These are all drinks that are often served with a lime wedge. Let's be honest, there's nothing better than a squirt of fresh lime juice to make your beverage a little more refreshing.
Want an endless supply of lime wedges? Maybe you love limeade or lime-rickeys. No matter what your drink of choice is, there's always a need for limes.
Do you want to grow limes? If so, use our guide for lime tree fertilization, maintenance, and care, here.
Planting
Let's start at the beginning: choosing and planting your lime tree.
Of all the citrus varieties, lime trees are the most sensitive to cold weather. To grow outdoors, they must be in a warm, mild climate or zones 8 to 11 on the Plant Hardiness Zone Map.
But don't lose hope if you live in cooler temps. Lime trees can be grown successfully indoors as long as they are by a southern facing window, no matter how frigid it gets outside.
It's best to get your lime tree from a reputable nursery that can guarantee their trees. Lime trees are susceptible to different diseases that can be found at nurseries.
If planting outside, make sure to plant the tree in direct sunlight, at least 15-20 feet away from other structures. If planting inside, choose a ceramic or clay pot that is slightly larger than the root of the ball.
Make sure the area or pot has good drainage and use a potting soil specific for citrus trees.
Feeding
Lime trees need regular fertilizing to be successful. Start fertilizing your tree as soon as new growth appears.
There are several citrus plant food available. We recommend using slow-release fertilizers and use them every three months starting in February and going through August.
Don't worry about feeding them through the winter as the dormant season is essential for their development.
Watering
Lime trees need consistent watering in order to flourish. Water the soil once or twice a week when the soil is dry. Do not let the lime tree dry out as this will cause the leaves to wilt and fall off.
Soil that is too wet will cause root rot and fungal growth is it's important to let the soil dry out a bit before watering again.
If you live in a dry climate or go have dry winter air, consider using a humidifier or a spray bottle to keep the leaves moist.
If you see yellowing or cupping leaves, those are signs that there is too much watering. Just let the soil dry out before watering again.
Pruning
Unlike orchard fruit trees, lime trees don't need to heavily pruned. Pruning them occasionally may be required to remove dead wood or branches that are unruly.
New shoots should also be cut off as they do not grow the desired variety of citrus. Also, getting rid the thorns makes if easier to pick the fruit and doesn't harm the tree.
Citrus trees should be kept to a height of 8 feet to make fruit more accessible.
Harvesting
When we think of limes, we think green, but actually, limes turn yellow when they are completely ripe. Limes are often picked while they are still green, but are the most flavorful when they are developing some yellow spots.
Get Your Own Lime Tree
Growing your own citrus tree may seem overwhelming, especially if you live in the wrong climate. But with these helpful hints, you can be successful in growing your own personal lime tree.
Check out the US Citrus blog for more helpful citrus tips, insight, and resources.
Growing Trees is fun, and every tree we send comes with a 20-page care guide
