How to Grow Citrus

Aah, the refreshing smell of citrus! The good news is you can grow your own citrus tree outside in the summer or inside your home year round. They add lovely decor, freshening the air, and maybe even producing the occasional tangy fruit. The striking glossy foliage and pretty white flowers fill your room with a sweet fragrance. 

Art’s Nursery carries a seasonal selection citrus trees, including: lemons, limes and oranges as well as a few less common varieties like Yuzu, Flying Dragon and Thai Lime.
 

Citrus plants are heat and sun lovers. They need full sun, that is at least 6-8 hours of bright warm sunlight every day. They do not tolerate shade well. They also require a steady supply of moisture, in well draining soil. They don't like to dry out. Soil should be rich and full of nutrients and amendments for best crops. Citrus plants do not tolerate frosts well. They must always be kept or grown in a frost free location.
 

Lemons (Citrus limon)
Lemons are one of the hardiest citrus, and the most likely to produce a crop in the Pacific Northwest. They require the least amount of sunlight and heat units of the citrus species. The most common varieties include Lison, Eureka and Meyers Improved
 

Yuzu is a unique citrus that produces warty, bumpy inedible fruit. But its zest and juice are incredibly strong and often used in cooking and cocktails
 

Limes need more sun and heat than lemons and may not ripen in our climate. There are several common varieties including Bearss, Key Lime and Thai Lime. Thai Limes are green and bumpy and not generally eaten. Instead, the zest and the leaves are used in coking and for flavouring.
 

Oranges need more sun and heat than other citrus in order to sweeten up. They will not normally ripen in our climate
 

Grapefruits are larger fruiting, but less acidic than lemons. They are a favourite for breakfasts and cocktails. They will not usually ripen outdoors in the Pacific Northwest as they need plenty of sun and heat
 

Like many other fruiting trees, Citrus are prone to a variety of issues including insect infestations. Aphids, Scale and Spider mites are common. Inspect your plant regularly to prevent outbreaks. Mist dry areas to reduce spider mite concentrations, rub off scale or use horticultural soap to manage bugs. Citrus are especially prone to root rot. Bad drainage will kill more plants than will cold temperatures.