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Holly's Homestead — Citrus Tree

Lime

Citrus aurantiifolia · Rue family
DIFFICULTY Moderate
TYPE Evergreen perennial tree
MATURITY 2–3 years to first fruit
Sun
Full sun, sheltered
Water
Regular, deep
Soil pH
5.5–6.5
Spacing
3–4m
Depth
graft union above soil

01Planting depth

Limes are the most frost-tender of the common citrus — give them the warmest, most sheltered spot available, ideally against a north-facing wall in cooler zones.

02Planting

Method
Plant with the graft union above soil level; stake loosely.
Soil
Well-drained, slightly acidic.
Timing
Plant in spring, in the warmest, most sheltered position you have.

03Growing care

  • Protect from frost while young — even light frost can damage limes.
  • Water deeply and regularly, especially through fruit set.
  • Feed with a citrus fertiliser three times a year.
  • Mulch around the drip line, clear of the trunk.

04Problems

  • Frost damage — the main risk; shelter or cover in cold snaps.
  • Citrus leaf miner — silvery trails; prune affected tips.
  • Gall wasp — swollen stems; prune out before spring.
  • Sooty mould — follows sap-sucking pests; treat the pest.

05Harvest & storage

Signs
Full size, still green (most limes are picked green) and glossy.
Method
Cut or twist from the stem.
Curing
None needed.
Storage
Room temperature about a week, or refrigerated 2–3 weeks.

06Companions & rotation

Plant nearby
ComfreyMarigoldGarlic
Avoid nearby
Close tree planting
Rotation note
Not applicable — perennial tree.