Are you thinking about growing a kaffir lime tree indoors? If so, read on to learn the top 5 tips for optimal indoor growing.

Makrut lime leaves are the epitome of many Asian cuisines!

While this dwarf citrus tree can grow outdoors up to 5 feet tall, it's actually best suited for indoors. When confined to a container with adequate drainage, the tree can reach a maximum height of about 3 feet.

Apart from providing a constant supply of Makrut lime leaves for your dishes, the tree will also complement your interior design.

Use these five effective tips to grow your Kaffir tree indoors.

1. Use a Large Potka

Choose a pot that is at least 18 inches wide and that can hold at least 5 gallons of soil. The tree will need to be re-potted after every three years. You can upgrade the container at this point if need be.

There are several container options for growing Kaffir limes in a container. You can use a wooden planter, a plastic barrel, a decorative pot, or just about any container with good drainage holes. Fabric pots are another great option. While they don't have holes, their fabric mesh allows proper soil aeration and drainage.

2. Choose the Right Potting Soil

For all citrus trees, it's recommended to go for moist, well-drained potting soil with neutral pH. During its growing stage, the tree will require a somewhat humid soil condition. Since the air indoors is mostly too dry for citrus plants, it's advisable to increase the moisture by misting your Kaffir tree with a small humidifier.

However, keep in mind that the tree's roots can easily rot if constantly kept on wet soil. For best results, allow the potting soil to dry out after the daily waterings.

3. Provide Adequate Sunlight

Kaffir lime trees require six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for best results. For maximum sunlight exposure, place the tree next to the window. Also, turn the tree every week to ensure all sides get equal sunlight for proper growth.

You can also supplement the natural sunlight with artificial lighting. These specialized light fixtures mimic the attributes of natural sunlight to stimulate the growth process of your citrus tree. They also regulate the temperature conditions of the plant. Lime trees enjoy indoor temperatures of about 16°C (60 F), especially during the cold season.

4. Choose the Right Fertilizer

Kaffir trees require both macronutrients and micronutrients to grow properly. Macronutrients include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, while micronutrients include iron, zinc, and manganese.

A citrus fertilizer will typically contain all these minerals. Make sure you follow the directions on the package to know when and how much fertilizer you should apply.

5. Prune Your Lime Tree

Kaffir trees should be pruned while still young. This encourages proper branching and the growth of healthier leaves.

When it's fully grown, you can prune the tree at any time to keep it in shape. It's okay to remove the thorns on the tree because they don't serve any purpose indoors. What's more, they can be dangerous to your kids and pets.

Growing Kaffir Limes Indoors

We hope these tips help you grow Kaffir (Makrut) limes indoors!

At US Citrus, we offer healthy high-quality Makrut lime leaves, perfect for enhancing your favorite cuisine or cocktail! 

Growing Trees is fun, and every tree we send comes with a 20-page care guide.