Growing Citrus: Oranges and Lemon in the Window

Most citrus can be grown in pots or tubs fairly successfully. Their demands, however, are exacting. To get the best plants with some fruit, you must be able to give them the right conditions. Although citrus plants grow fairly easily from the seeds taken from the fruit you eat, the resulting plants are large growers. It is unlikely that they will ever fruit as a potted plant indoors. Since they grow quite large, these types require frequent pruning to keep them small.

For an attractive house plant that produces some fruit, the dwarf forms of citrus should be purchased. Potted citrus are available often through the mail in 2 inch pots, but larger, fruiting plants may be purchased often from florists and garden centers. House temperatures are ideal for citrus as they grow well in temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees. They do not grow well at temperatures below 55 degrees. Temperatures below 40 degrees for extended periods may damage the plants.

Indoor citrus plants need all the sunlight possible. Therefore, a large south window is the best location. During the summer they should be grown outdoors in partial shade. As they become larger, they are useful as a patio plant in summer. Citrus are also sensitive to soil moisture and can be as quickly killed over by watering as by under watering. Never put citrus in a pot that has no drainage, since good drainage is important.

Allow about the surface inch of soil in the pot to become dry before watering. When the surface feels damp, water is not necessary. Occasionally wash off the leaves of citrus plants with a spray or damp cloth. Fertilize citrus lightly about once a month with a water-soluble houseplant fertilizer. Citrus plants grow well in acid soil. If water tends to be high in calcium, additional iron may be included with the fertilization.

Iron problems are evident if the young leaves look yellow with only green veins. Probably the best citrus houseplant is the dwarf orange, or calamondin orange. It is able to flower and fruit indoors. Flowers are waxy, white and very fragrant. Fruits are small, only 1 to ½ inches in diameter, but are edible and very decorative on the plant. The fruit is highly acidic and not nearly as sweet as commercial oranges from the grocery store.

Another interesting citrus for indoors is the ponderosa lemon. It also is available as a fairly small plant, so can be kept at a window. The plant produces fruit weighing from 2 pounds. Although it normally does not fruit abundantly, even a single large fruit on the small plant can be decorative. Small plants should be grown in a spot at least 6 inches in diameter, and repotted promptly as needed.

Use a well-drained soil. One made of equal parts Geramn peat, perlite and good garden soil is adequate. Do not use a heavy clay for the soil portion. Citrus are particularly susceptible to spider mite attack, so keep close watch for these pests and control them promptly.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citrus