Back

Q.

I would like to plant citrus in pots. What size pot do I need to plant a mandarin or lime tree in and how long would I need to wait for fruit?

A.

Look for pots or tubs that are at least 40 litres in size, this is four times the size of an average kitchen bucket which is 10 litres. Half wine barrels are an ideal size.
Grafted fruit trees fruit in three to four years. You can expect fruit in one to two years from planting.
It is best practise to remove fruit in the first year of planting so that the plants energies go into establishing a strong root system and not into producing fruit.
Fill your container with a quality potting mix such as Tui Citrus & Fruit Mix. All citrus enjoy a rich moisture retentive mix or soil.
Make sure you place your pot or container in a sunny sheltered spot as they do their best in a warm sunny environment.
Citrus in pots require more regular watering over the summer months as well as regular feeding. Feed weekly in the growing season with Tui Citrus & Fruit Superfood liquid fertiliser
Well watered, well nourished citrus will have a better chance of keeping insect pests and diseases at bay.