Can You Really Grow Citrus in Containers? The Results are Juicy!

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Imagine the satisfaction of picking a fresh lemon or orange from your own container-grown citrus tree right on your patio or even indoors! Growing citrus in containers is ideal for gardeners who lack garden space but crave fresh fruit. This guide will give you all the steps and tips you need to grow citrus in containers.

Container gardening opens up a world of possibilities for growing your own fruit, even if you don’t have a backyard. If you love the idea of fresh citrus but want to explore other compact fruit options, you’ll adore our guide to growing dwarf fruit trees. These pint-sized powerhouses can fit into the tiniest spaces and offer a wide variety of fruit to enjoy. Check it out and start dreaming about your very own mini orchard!

A beautiful bright green leafed clementine tree growing in a container.  The tree is in full fruit with two dozens small fruits fully ripe and bright orange.

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Can You Grow Citrus in Containers? (Yes, You Can!)

The short answer is yes — you can grow citrus in containers, and they will produce fruit! Container-grown citrus can thrive with the proper care, whether in a northern climate with cold winters or a southern climate with scorching summers. These trees adapt well to confined spaces, and with proper soil, watering, and sunlight, they’ll reward you with fragrant blossoms and fresh fruit.

But what does it take to grow citrus in containers? Let’s explore everything you need to know.

A patio of citrus trees in containers with abundant fruit ready to harvest.

Why Grow Citrus in Containers?

Cultivating citrus in containers is a wonderful addition for urban gardeners, apartment residents, or anyone with limited outdoor space. Here’s why it’s such a fantastic option!

  • Space Efficiency:  Container citrus is perfect for patios, balconies, or small gardens.
  • Mobility: Easily move containers to catch sunlight or bring them indoors in winter.
  • Control Over Conditions: Container gardening allows you to adjust soil, water, and sunlight more precisely, which can help boost productivity and prevent issues common to in-ground plants.

Choosing the Right Citrus Varieties for Containers

Not all citrus trees adapt well to container life, so selecting the right variety is key. Compact or dwarf options are best; they’re naturally smaller and designed for more confined spaces.

Citrus Variety Recommendations

Citrus VarietyDescriptionIdeal ZonesSuitable for Indoor Growth?
Meyer LemonSlightly sweeter lemon variety with fragrant flowers year-round.Zones 4-11Yes
Calamondin OrangeCompact, ornamental tree with small, tart oranges.Zones 7-11Yes
Dwarf LimeKaffir or Bearss varieties are great for small containers.Zones 8-11Yes
KumquatHardy and highly productive; fruit can be eaten whole.Zones 8-11Yes
Finger LimeUnique, small fruits with caviar-like pulp, perfect for foodies.Zones 9-11No
Satsuma MandarinCold-hardy, seedless, and sweet.Zones 6-11Yes

Pro Tip: Look for “dwarf” or “patio” in the plant’s name or description. These varieties are usually bred for smaller spaces and adapt better to containers.

A small citrus tree growing abundantly in a black pastic container.

Selecting The best Pots

01

Container Size

For young citrus trees, start with a container of at least 10-15 gallons or around 14-16 inches in diameter. As the tree grows, consider moving it to a larger pot (up to 20-25 gallons)

02

Best Materials

Plastic pots are good for hot climates since they are lightweight and hold moisture, but they can wear out. Clay pots suit humid conditions by preventing waterlogging and improving appearance over time, though they may dry out faster in heat. Choose a container that fits your budget and climate for the best gardening results!

03

Drainage

Ensure multiple drainage holes are present to prevent root rot. Add a layer of very coarse gravel to the bottom for large containers with limited drainage to improve airflow and drainage.

Ideal Soil Mix for Container-Grown Citrus

Citrus trees are sensitive to soil conditions, so creating a well-draining, nutrient-rich mix is essential.

  • Potting Soil Mix: Combine high-quality potting soil with organic compost (for nutrients) and perlite or sand (for drainage). Avoid garden soil, as it can compact and hinder root growth.
  • pH Level: Citrus prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5. You can adjust the pH by adding peat moss or a small amount of sulfur if needed.

Tip: A pre-mixed cactus or citrus potting mix often works well, as it’s already designed for well-drained soil conditions.

Placing Your Citrus Plant for Optimal Sunlight

Citrus plants are sun-loving and need full sunlight to thrive. Aim to provide:

  • Outdoor Placement: Position your container in a south-facing area where it will receive at least 8-12 hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient light may result in fewer flowers and fruit.
  • Indoor Sunlight Needs: Place the tree near the brightest window available for indoor growers, ideally south-facing. If sunlight is limited, consider supplementing with full-spectrum grow lights for 10-12 hours daily, which can help mimic outdoor conditions.

Shade Management Tip: If your container is outdoors, be prepared to move it if the sun exposure changes seasonally.

A beautiful small citrus tree absolutely bursting with bright orange fruits ready to be picked.

Watering and Humidity Tips for Citrus in Containers

Container-grown citrus trees dry out faster than ground ones, requiring consistent watering.

  • Watering Routine: You should water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Be sure to water until excess flows from the drainage holes to hydrate roots at the bottom of the pot. In summer, you may need to water every 1-2 days.
  • Humidity Needs: Citrus trees prefer moderate humidity. To increase humidity in indoor plants, especially in dry winter conditions, place the potted citrus tree on a tray filled with pebbles and water or use a room humidifier.

Warning: Avoid overwatering. Citrus roots are prone to rot, so allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.

A finger lime container grown citrus tree with ripe ready olive green fruits.

Fertilizing for Health and Productivity

Container-grown citrus trees require frequent feeding due to nutrient depletion and limited soil volume.

  • Fertilizer Type: Use a citrus-specific fertilizer or a balanced (10-10-10) slow-release formula. You should apply fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring through summer) and reduce feeding in winter.
  • Organic Fertilizer Options: Fish emulsion, compost tea, or worm castings provide slow-release nutrients and benefit organic gardeners. Mix these into the top layer of soil every 6-8 weeks.

Tip: Watch for nutrient deficiency signs, like yellowing leaves, and adjust your fertilizer routine accordingly.

Pruning and Training Container Citrus Trees

Pruning is essential to keep your citrus tree healthy, manage its size, and encourage fruit production.

  • When and How to Prune: Prune in early spring, focusing on removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Trim branches to create an open center to improve airflow.
  • Support Heavy Branches: If you notice branches drooping from the weight of the fruit, please use small stakes or a small trellis to help support. You also may need to prune excess fruit in the first few years to ensure the branches do not break.

Note: Avoid over-pruning, as excessive trimming can reduce fruit production.

A beautiful tiny citrus tree in bloom and with ripe fruit.

Common Issues and Solutions

Container-grown citrus can attract pests and face specific challenges.

  • Pests: Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. Inspect regularly and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
  • Disease Prevention: Citrus trees in containers are prone to root rot due to poor drainage, so monitor soil moisture carefully. Mildew can also develop in humid conditions; ensure good airflow around the plant to prevent this.

Tip: If leaves are yellow or curled, test the soil moisture, adjust watering, or consider adding fertilizer to address nutrient deficiencies.

Seasonal Care: Adapting to Climate Changes

  • Winter Care: Bring containers indoors when temperatures dip below 40°F. Insulate the pot by wrapping it in burlap, or use an insulating material around the root zone to protect against cold.
  • Summer Care: Increase watering during hot weather and ensure full sun exposure. Be mindful of heat stress and water consistently.

Harvesting and Using Fresh Citrus

Once your citrus fruit is ripe, picking it at the right time ensures the best flavor and freshness.

  • When to Harvest: Citrus fruit is ready to harvest when it reaches full color and can be pulled from the branch with a gentle twist.
  • Using and Storing: Store fresh citrus in the fridge for up to two weeks. Enjoy it fresh, or preserve it in jams, syrups, or as zest in baked goods.
An upclose image of the fruit ripe and growing abundantly in a container garden.

Recommended Reading: Deepen Your Citrus Knowledge

Looking to take your citrus-growing skills to the next level? Check out these highly rated books to help you master pruning, container gardening, and fruit tree care:

  1. “Bob Flowerdew’s Complete Fruit Book” by Bob Flowerdew — Perfect for anyone interested in growing citrus or any fruit, especially in containers. It covers everything from choosing the right varieties to pruning, pest management, and harvesting tips.
  2. “How to Prune Fruit Trees” by R. Sanford Martin — A classic guide with clear, easy-to-follow illustrations focused on pruning techniques for fruit trees, including citrus.
  3. “Container Gardening Complete” by Jessica Walliser — This book offers practical advice for growing plants in small spaces, including fruit trees. It’s an excellent resource for container gardeners looking to maximize their yields.

These guides are invaluable resources to keep your citrus trees healthy, productive, and thriving for years to come!

Ready to Grow Your Own Citrus?

Growing citrus in containers is a rewarding way to enjoy fresh fruit at home, regardless of where you live. Imagine the joy of picking a fresh lemon or orange right from your patio or even your living room! With the right care, container-grown citrus trees can thrive and produce fruit for many years.

So why wait? Start your citrus-growing journey today! Choose a variety that suits your space, gather your supplies, and get ready to enjoy fragrant blossoms and juicy fruits — all from your own container garden.

Closeup of Laura.

Author: Laura Kennedy

Writer & Owner of Little Yellow Wheelbarrow

Laura is a highly skilled gardener and fervent flower enthusiast. Despite her playful battle with plant spacing guidelines, Laura’s work inspires gardeners to create thriving, beautiful spaces that reflect both creativity and sustainability.

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