Balcony Gardening: Tips for Growing Citrus in Containers

Growing Citrus in Containers: A Guide to Balcony Gardening

Balcony gardening is a great way to enjoy fresh citrus fruits even if you don’t have a backyard. With the right care, you can grow a variety of citrus trees in containers on your balcony. This article will provide you with all the information you need to get started, from choosing the right variety to harvesting your first fruits.

Citrus trees are native to warm climates, so they need plenty of sunlight to thrive. If your balcony doesn’t get at least six hours of sunlight per day, you may want to consider growing a different type of fruit tree.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a citrus variety for your balcony is the size of the tree. Dwarf and semi-dwarf varieties are best suited for container growing, as they won’t get too large or unwieldy.

Once you’ve chosen a citrus variety, you’ll need to select the right container. The container should be large enough to accommodate the root system of the tree, but not so large that it becomes difficult to move around. It should also have drainage holes to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged.

1. Choosing the Right Citrus Variety

When choosing a citrus variety for container growing, there are a few factors to consider:

• The size of your balcony: Dwarf and semi-dwarf varieties are best suited for container growing, as they won’t get too large or unwieldy.
• The amount of sunlight your balcony receives: Citrus trees need plenty of sunlight to thrive. If your balcony doesn’t get at least six hours of sunlight per day, you may want to consider growing a different type of fruit tree.
• Your personal preferences: Do you prefer sweet or tart citrus fruits? Do you want a variety that is easy to peel or one that is more difficult to peel? Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start narrowing down your choices.

Here are a few of the most popular citrus varieties for container growing:

• Dwarf Meyer lemons: Meyer lemons are a small, sweet variety of lemon that is perfect for container growing. They are easy to peel and have a delicious flavor that is perfect for lemonade, pies, and other desserts.
• Calamondin oranges: Calamondin oranges are a small, tart variety of orange that is also well-suited for container growing. They are often used in Asian cuisine and can be eaten fresh, juiced, or used to make marmalade.
• ‘Improved Meyer’ lemons: ‘Improved Meyer’ lemons are a larger variety of Meyer lemon that is also well-suited for container growing. They have a slightly sweeter flavor than Meyer lemons and are also easier to peel.
• ‘Nova’ mandarins: ‘Nova’ mandarins are a small, sweet variety of mandarin that is perfect for container growing. They are easy to peel and have a delicious flavor that is perfect for eating fresh or using in salads and other dishes.

No matter which variety you choose, be sure to do your research to make sure that it is well-suited for container growing and that it will thrive in the climate where you live.

Dwarf Varieties

Dwarf citrus varieties are a great choice for container growing because of their compact size. They are typically smaller than standard citrus trees, making them easier to manage in a container. Dwarf citrus trees also tend to produce fruit earlier than standard trees, so you can enjoy fresh citrus fruits sooner.

Some of the most popular dwarf citrus varieties for container growing include:

• Meyer lemons: Meyer lemons are a small, sweet variety of lemon that is perfect for container growing. They are easy to peel and have a delicious flavor that is perfect for lemonade, pies, and other desserts.
• Calamondin oranges: Calamondin oranges are a small, tart variety of orange that is also well-suited for container growing. They are often used in Asian cuisine and can be eaten fresh, juiced, or used to make marmalade.
• Kumquats: Kumquats are a small, oval-shaped citrus fruit that is also well-suited for container growing. They have a sweet-tart flavor and can be eaten fresh, juiced, or used to make preserves.

When choosing a dwarf citrus variety for container growing, be sure to do your research to make sure that it is truly dwarf and that it will thrive in the climate where you live. You should also consider the size of the container that you will be using. Dwarf citrus trees can still get quite large, so be sure to choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the root system of the tree.

With proper care, dwarf citrus trees can produce fruit for many years. They are a great way to enjoy fresh citrus fruits even if you don’t have a lot of space.

Semi-Dwarf Varieties

Semi-dwarf citrus varieties are a good compromise between dwarf and standard varieties. They are smaller than standard trees, but larger than dwarf trees, and they tend to produce more fruit than dwarf trees. Semi-dwarf citrus trees are also easier to manage in a container than standard trees.

Some of the most popular semi-dwarf citrus varieties for container growing include:

• ‘Improved Meyer’ lemons: ‘Improved Meyer’ lemons are a larger variety of Meyer lemon that is also well-suited for container growing. They have a slightly sweeter flavor than Meyer lemons and are also easier to peel.
• ‘Nova’ mandarins: ‘Nova’ mandarins are a small, sweet variety of mandarin that is perfect for container growing. They are easy to peel and have a delicious flavor that is perfect for eating fresh or using in salads and other dishes.
• ‘Satsuma’ oranges: ‘Satsuma’ oranges are a seedless variety of orange that is also well-suited for container growing. They have a sweet, slightly tart flavor and are easy to peel.

When choosing a semi-dwarf citrus variety for container growing, be sure to do your research to make sure that it is truly semi-dwarf and that it will thrive in the climate where you live. You should also consider the size of the container that you will be using. Semi-dwarf citrus trees can still get quite large, so be sure to choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the root system of the tree.

With proper care, semi-dwarf citrus trees can produce fruit for many years. They are a great way to enjoy fresh citrus fruits even if you don’t have a lot of space.

Standard Varieties

Standard citrus varieties are the largest type of citrus tree, and they can grow quite large, even in a container. However, with proper care and support, you can grow a standard citrus tree in a container on your balcony.

Some of the most popular standard citrus varieties for container growing include:

• ‘Eureka’ lemons: ‘Eureka’ lemons are a large, tart variety of lemon that is perfect for making lemonade and other citrus dishes.
• Valencia oranges: Valencia oranges are a large, sweet variety of orange that is perfect for eating fresh or juicing.
• Grapefruit: Grapefruit are a large, tart variety of citrus fruit that is often used for breakfast or in salads.

When choosing a standard citrus variety for container growing, be sure to do your research to make sure that it is truly standard and that it will thrive in the climate where you live. You should also consider the size of the container that you will be using. Standard citrus trees can get quite large, so be sure to choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the root system of the tree.

You will also need to provide proper support for your standard citrus tree. This can be done by staking the tree or by using a trellis. Staking the tree involves driving a stake into the ground next to the tree and then tying the tree to the stake. Using a trellis involves attaching a trellis to the container and then training the tree to grow up the trellis.

With proper care and support, standard citrus trees can produce fruit for many years. They are a great way to enjoy fresh citrus fruits even if you don’t have a lot of space.

2. Selecting the Right Container

The size and material of the container are two of the most important factors to consider when growing citrus trees in containers.

Size

The container should be large enough to accommodate the root system of the citrus tree as it grows. A good rule of thumb is to choose a container that is at least 18 inches in diameter and 12-18 inches deep. If the container is too small, the roots of the tree will become cramped and the tree will not be able to grow properly.

Material

The material of the container is also important. The most common materials used for citrus containers are clay, plastic, and wood.

• Clay pots are porous, which allows air and water to circulate around the roots of the tree. However, clay pots are also heavy and can be difficult to move.
• Plastic pots are lightweight and easy to move. However, plastic pots are not as porous as clay pots, so they can retain water more easily. This can lead to root rot, especially if the tree is overwatered.
• Wooden containers are a good compromise between clay and plastic pots. They are porous, but not as much as clay pots. They are also lightweight, but not as much as plastic pots.

No matter what material you choose, make sure that the container has drainage holes in the bottom. This will allow excess water to drain out of the container and prevent the roots of the tree from rotting.

You may also want to consider the insulation properties of the container. Clay pots provide good insulation, which can help to protect the roots of the tree from cold temperatures. Plastic pots do not provide as much insulation, so they are not as well-suited for growing citrus trees in cold climates.

By choosing the right size and material for your container, you can help to ensure that your citrus tree will thrive.

Size

The size of the container is one of the most important factors to consider when growing citrus trees in containers. The container should be large enough to accommodate the root system of the tree as it grows. A good rule of thumb is to choose a container that is at least 18 inches in diameter and 12-18 inches deep. If the container is too small, the roots of the tree will become cramped and the tree will not be able to grow properly.

The root system of a citrus tree is extensive, and it needs plenty of space to spread out. If the roots are cramped, the tree will not be able to absorb enough water and nutrients from the soil. This can lead to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and poor fruit production.

In addition, a small container will dry out more quickly than a larger container. This means that you will need to water your tree more frequently, which can be a hassle.

If you are not sure what size container to choose, it is always better to err on the side of caution and choose a larger container. A larger container will give your tree more room to grow and will help to prevent problems with root rot and other issues.

Here are some tips for choosing the right size container for your citrus tree:

• Consider the size of the tree that you are planting. A dwarf citrus tree will need a smaller container than a standard citrus tree.
• Choose a container that is at least 18 inches in diameter and 12-18 inches deep.
• Make sure that the container has drainage holes in the bottom.
• If you are not sure what size container to choose, it is always better to err on the side of caution and choose a larger container.

Drainage

Citrus trees require well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Waterlogging occurs when the soil is saturated with water and there is not enough air for the roots to breathe. This can lead to root rot, which is a fungal disease that can kill the tree.

To prevent waterlogging, it is important to choose a container with drainage holes in the bottom. The drainage holes will allow excess water to drain out of the container and prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged.

You can also improve the drainage of your container by placing a layer of gravel or broken pottery shards at the bottom of the container. This will help to create a drainage layer that will allow water to drain away from the roots of the tree.

Here are some tips for improving the drainage of your container:

• Choose a container with drainage holes in the bottom.
• Place a layer of gravel or broken pottery shards at the bottom of the container.
• Use a potting mix that is well-drained.
• Water your tree deeply, but infrequently.
• Avoid overwatering your tree.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent waterlogging and root rot and keep your citrus tree healthy and productive.

Material

The material of the container is another important factor to consider when growing citrus trees in containers. Different materials offer varying benefits, so it is important to choose a material that is best suited for your needs.

Here is a brief overview of the different materials used for citrus containers:

• Clay pots: Clay pots are porous, which allows air and water to circulate around the roots of the tree. This helps to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Clay pots also provide good insulation, which can help to protect the roots of the tree from cold temperatures. However, clay pots are heavy and can be difficult to move.
• Plastic pots: Plastic pots are lightweight and easy to move. They are also less expensive than clay pots. However, plastic pots are not as porous as clay pots, so they can retain water more easily. This can lead to root rot, especially if the tree is overwatered.
• Wooden containers: Wooden containers add a natural touch to your balcony or patio. They are also relatively lightweight and easy to move. However, wooden containers are not as durable as clay or plastic pots, and they require more frequent watering due to evaporation.

Ultimately, the best material for your citrus container will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a container that provides good drainage and insulation, then a clay pot is a good choice. If you are looking for a lightweight and affordable container, then a plastic pot is a good choice. And if you are looking for a container that adds a natural touch to your balcony or patio, then a wooden container is a good choice.

No matter what material you choose, make sure that the container has drainage holes in the bottom. This will allow excess water to drain out of the container and prevent the roots of the tree from rotting.

3. Creating the Ideal Soil Mix

Citrus trees prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil. You can create a potting mix that meets these requirements by mixing together the following ingredients:

• Potting soil: Potting soil is a good base for a citrus potting mix. It is typically made from a blend of peat moss, compost, and perlite.
• Compost: Compost adds organic matter to the potting mix, which helps to improve drainage and fertility.
• Perlite: Perlite is a lightweight volcanic rock that helps to improve drainage and aeration.
• Sand: Sand can also be added to the potting mix to improve drainage.

You can also add other amendments to the potting mix, such as bone meal or blood meal, to provide additional nutrients for your citrus tree.

Once you have mixed together all of the ingredients, be sure to test the pH of the potting mix. Citrus trees prefer slightly acidic soil, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If the pH of the potting mix is too high, you can add sulfur to lower it. If the pH of the potting mix is too low, you can add lime to raise it.

Here is a recipe for a simple citrus potting mix:

• 1 part potting soil
• 1 part compost
• 1 part perlite
• 1/2 part sand

You can adjust the proportions of the ingredients to suit your individual needs and preferences. For example, if you live in a climate with heavy rainfall, you may want to add more perlite to the potting mix to improve drainage.

Base Ingredients

When creating a potting mix for citrus trees, it is important to start with a base of high-quality potting soil. Potting soils that are specifically formulated for citrus trees are available at most garden centers and nurseries. These potting soils typically contain a blend of peat moss, compost, and perlite.

• Peat moss: Peat moss is a type of organic matter that is formed from the decomposition of sphagnum moss. It is a good source of water and nutrients for plants, and it also helps to improve drainage.
• Compost: Compost is a type of organic matter that is created from the decomposition of plant and animal materials. It is a good source of nutrients for plants, and it also helps to improve soil structure.
• Perlite: Perlite is a lightweight volcanic rock that is used to improve drainage and aeration in potting mixes.

In addition to these base ingredients, citrus potting mixes may also contain other amendments, such as bone meal or blood meal. These amendments can provide additional nutrients for your citrus tree.

When choosing a potting soil for your citrus tree, be sure to read the label carefully. The label will tell you what type of ingredients are in the potting soil and what the pH of the potting soil is. Citrus trees prefer slightly acidic soil, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

If you are not sure which potting soil to choose, you can always ask for help at your local garden center or nursery.

Adding Amendments

Once you have chosen a base potting soil for your citrus tree, you can amend it with organic matter and other materials to improve its fertility and drainage.

Organic matter

Organic matter, such as compost or manure, is a good way to improve the fertility of your potting soil. Organic matter also helps to improve drainage and aeration. You can add up to 1/3 organic matter to your potting soil.

Perlite and pumice

Perlite and pumice are two types of lightweight volcanic rock that can be added to potting soil to improve drainage and aeration. Perlite and pumice are also good for insulating the roots of your citrus tree in cold weather. You can add up to 1/3 perlite or pumice to your potting soil.

Here is a simple recipe for an amended citrus potting mix:

• 1 part potting soil
• 1/3 part compost
• 1/3 part perlite

You can adjust the proportions of the ingredients to suit your individual needs and preferences. For example, if you live in a climate with heavy rainfall, you may want to add more perlite to the potting mix to improve drainage.

Once you have amended your potting soil, be sure to mix it thoroughly so that all of the ingredients are evenly distributed.

pH Level

Citrus trees prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. You can test the pH of your potting mix using a soil pH meter. Soil pH meters are available at most garden centers and nurseries.

If the pH of your potting mix is too high, you can add sulfur to lower it. Sulfur is available in both granular and liquid form. If you are using granular sulfur, follow the directions on the package. If you are using liquid sulfur, add 1 teaspoon of sulfur per gallon of water and apply it to the potting mix.

If the pH of your potting mix is too low, you can add lime to raise it. Lime is available in both granular and liquid form. If you are using granular lime, follow the directions on the package. If you are using liquid lime, add 1 tablespoon of lime per gallon of water and apply it to the potting mix.

Once you have added sulfur or lime to your potting mix, be sure to mix it thoroughly so that the amendment is evenly distributed. You should also water the potting mix thoroughly after adding sulfur or lime.

It is important to note that the pH of your potting mix can change over time. Therefore, it is a good idea to test the pH of your potting mix every few months and adjust it accordingly.

4. Planting and Caring for Your Citrus Tree

Once you have chosen your citrus variety, container, and soil mix, it’s time to plant your citrus tree.

1. Dig a hole in the potting mix. The hole should be large enough to accommodate the root ball of the citrus tree.
2. Remove the citrus tree from its nursery container. Carefully remove the citrus tree from its nursery container. Be careful not to damage the roots of the tree.
3. Place the citrus tree in the hole. Place the citrus tree in the hole so that the graft union (where the rootstock and scion are joined) is slightly above the soil level.
4. Fill in the hole with potting mix. Fill in the hole with potting mix and gently tamp down the soil around the base of the tree.
5. Water the tree deeply. Water the tree deeply after planting.

Once you have planted your citrus tree, it is important to provide proper care to ensure its health and productivity.

1. Water regularly. Citrus trees need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water the tree deeply, but infrequently. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot.
2. Fertilize regularly. Citrus trees need regular fertilization to produce fruit. Fertilize the tree every few months with a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for citrus trees.
3. Prune regularly. Pruning helps to maintain the shape and health of your citrus tree. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches. You can also prune to encourage branching and fruit production.
4. Protect from pests and diseases. Citrus trees are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Inspect your tree regularly for signs of pests or diseases and treat accordingly.

Planting

Planting your citrus tree

Once you have chosen your citrus variety, container, and soil mix, it’s time to plant your tree.

1. Dig a hole in the potting mix. The hole should be large enough to accommodate the root ball of the citrus tree. The root ball is the mass of roots that surrounds the base of the tree.
2. Remove the citrus tree from its nursery container. Carefully remove the citrus tree from its nursery container. Be careful not to damage the roots of the tree.
3. Place the citrus tree in the hole. Place the citrus tree in the hole so that the graft union (where the rootstock and scion are joined) is slightly above the soil level. The graft union is the point where the rootstock and scion were joined together to create the tree.
4. Fill in the hole with potting mix. Fill in the hole with potting mix and gently tamp down the soil around the base of the tree.
5. Water the tree deeply. Water the tree deeply after planting.

Tips for planting your citrus tree

• Be careful not to damage the roots of the tree when removing it from its nursery container.
• Plant the tree so that the graft union is slightly above the soil level.
• Water the tree deeply after planting.
• Mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Watering

Watering your citrus tree

Citrus trees need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. However, it is important to avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot.

How to water your citrus tree

• Water your citrus tree deeply, but infrequently. This means watering the tree until the water drains out of the bottom of the pot.
• Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Stick your finger in the soil to check the moisture level. If the soil is dry up to your first knuckle, it is time to water the tree.
• Water your citrus tree more frequently during hot, dry weather.
• Avoid overwatering your citrus tree. Soggy soil can lead to root rot.

Tips for watering your citrus tree

• Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to water your citrus tree. This will help to prevent the leaves from getting wet, which can lead to fungal diseases.
• Water your citrus tree at the base of the tree. Avoid getting the leaves wet.
• Mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing

Fertilizing your citrus tree

Citrus trees need regular fertilization to produce fruit. Fertilize your citrus tree every few months with a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for citrus trees. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully.

Benefits of fertilizing your citrus tree

• Fertilizing your citrus tree will help it to produce more fruit.
• Fertilizing your citrus tree will help it to grow healthy and strong.
• Fertilizing your citrus tree will help it to resist pests and diseases.

How to fertilize your citrus tree

• Apply fertilizer to the soil around the base of the tree.
• Avoid getting fertilizer on the leaves of the tree.
• Water the tree deeply after fertilizing.

Tips for fertilizing your citrus tree

• Use a slow-release fertilizer. This will help to prevent the tree from getting too much fertilizer at once.
• Fertilize your citrus tree more frequently during the growing season.
• Avoid fertilizing your citrus tree during the winter months.

Pruning

Pruning your citrus tree

Regular pruning helps maintain the shape and health of your citrus tree. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches. You can also prune to encourage branching and fruit production.

Benefits of pruning your citrus tree

• Pruning your citrus tree will help it to produce more fruit.
• Pruning your citrus tree will help it to grow healthy and strong.
• Pruning your citrus tree will help it to resist pests and diseases.
• Pruning your citrus tree will help it to maintain a compact size.

How to prune your citrus tree

• Prune your citrus tree during the dormant season. This is typically in late winter or early spring.
• Use sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts.
• Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
• Prune to encourage branching and fruit production.
• Avoid pruning too much at once.

Tips for pruning your citrus tree

• If you are not sure how to prune your citrus tree, consult with a certified arborist.
• Prune your citrus tree regularly to keep it healthy and productive.

5. Harvesting and Enjoying Your Citrus Fruits

Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain the shape and health of your citrus tree. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches. You can also prune to encourage branching and fruit production.

Pruning your citrus tree is an important part of its care. Regular pruning will help to keep your tree healthy and productive. Pruning can also help to improve the shape of your tree and encourage it to produce more fruit.

Benefits of pruning your citrus tree:

• Pruning will help your tree to produce more fruit.
• Pruning will help your tree to grow healthy and strong.
• Pruning will help your tree to resist pests and diseases.
• Pruning will help your tree to maintain a compact size.

How to prune your citrus tree:

• Prune your citrus tree during the dormant season. This is typically in late winter or early spring.
• Use sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts.
• Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
• Prune to encourage branching and fruit production.
• Avoid pruning too much at once.

Tips for pruning your citrus tree:

• If you are not sure how to prune your citrus tree, consult with a certified arborist.
• Prune your citrus tree regularly to keep it healthy and productive.

Harvesting Time

Harvesting Time

Citrus fruits ripen at different times depending on the variety and climate. Use visual cues, such as color and firmness, to determine when your fruits are ready to harvest.

Visual cues to look for:

• Color: Citrus fruits will change color as they ripen. Lemons and limes will turn from green to yellow, while oranges and grapefruits will turn from green to orange or red.
• Firmness: Ripe citrus fruits will be slightly soft to the touch. Avoid picking fruits that are too hard or too soft.

Other tips for harvesting citrus fruits:

• Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the fruit from the tree.
• Avoid pulling the fruit off the tree, as this can damage the tree.
• Handle the fruit carefully to avoid bruising.

Storing citrus fruits:

• Citrus fruits can be stored at room temperature for a few days.
• For longer storage, citrus fruits can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks.

Tips for enjoying your citrus fruits:

• Citrus fruits can be eaten fresh, juiced, or used in a variety of recipes.
• Citrus fruits are a good source of vitamin C and other nutrients.
• Enjoy your homegrown citrus fruits!

Harvesting Techniques

Harvesting Techniques

Harvest citrus fruits by gently twisting or cutting them from the tree. Avoid pulling or tearing, as this can damage the fruit and the tree.

How to harvest citrus fruits:

1. Gently twist the fruit. Hold the fruit in one hand and gently twist it back and forth until it comes off the tree.
2. Cut the fruit. If the fruit is difficult to twist off, you can use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut it from the tree. Be careful not to cut into the fruit.

Tips for harvesting citrus fruits:

• Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to make clean cuts.
• Avoid pulling or tearing the fruit, as this can damage the fruit and the tree.
• Handle the fruit carefully to avoid bruising.
• Harvest citrus fruits when they are ripe. Ripe citrus fruits will be slightly soft to the touch and will have a deep color.

Storing citrus fruits:

• Citrus fruits can be stored at room temperature for a few days.
• For longer storage, citrus fruits can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks.

Tips for enjoying your citrus fruits:

• Citrus fruits can be eaten fresh, juiced, or used in a variety of recipes.
• Citrus fruits are a good source of vitamin C and other nutrients.
• Enjoy your homegrown citrus fruits!

Storage and Enjoyment

Storage and Enjoyment

Store harvested citrus fruits in a cool, dry place. They can be enjoyed fresh or used in a variety of recipes, adding a burst of flavor and nutrition to your meals.

How to store citrus fruits:

• Store citrus fruits in a cool, dry place. The ideal temperature for storing citrus fruits is between 55°F and 60°F.
• Avoid storing citrus fruits in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
• Store citrus fruits in a single layer. Do not stack the fruits on top of each other.
• Store citrus fruits for up to two weeks.

How to enjoy citrus fruits:

• Citrus fruits can be eaten fresh.
• Citrus fruits can be juiced.
• Citrus fruits can be used in a variety of recipes, such as pies, cakes, and salads.

Tips for enjoying citrus fruits:

• Choose citrus fruits that are ripe. Ripe citrus fruits will be slightly soft to the touch and will have a deep color.
• Wash citrus fruits before eating or using them in recipes.
• Enjoy your homegrown citrus fruits!

Quiz

1. Which of the following is NOT a benefit of growing citrus trees in containers?

(a) Easy to move around (b) Can be grown in small spaces (c) Produce more fruit than standard trees (d) Can be protected from frost

2. What is the ideal pH range for citrus trees?

(a) 4.0-5.0 (b) 5.5-6.5 (c) 6.0-7.0 (d) 7.5-8.5

3. How often should you water a citrus tree in a container?

(a) Daily (b) Every other day (c) Once a week (d) Only when the soil is dry to the touch

4. What is the best way to harvest citrus fruits?

(a) Pull them off the tree (b) Cut them off the tree (c) Twist them off the tree (d) Shake them off the tree

5. How can you tell if a citrus fruit is ripe?

(a) It is soft to the touch (b) It has a deep color (c) It smells sweet (d) All of the above

Answer Key

1. (c)
2. (c)
3. (d)
4. (c)
5. (d)