Sweet Lime Tree

Position Full sun in a spot that is sheltered from any cold snaps. Limes do not tolerate very cold temperatures well and will not thrive in places that dip to 10-degrees Celsius or below. If your garden is exposed to very cold conditions, plant your lime tree in a pot that can be moved indoors. Plant your tree with a space of at least 5 metres all around it. Size A sweet lime grows to over 2 metres. A seedling will take between 3 and 6 years to begin to bear fruit and reaches full production at 8 to 10 years old. Soil Type Lime trees thrive in warm soil that is well-enriched with nutrients; whether it is in a pot or the garden. However, the soil needs to have excellent drainage, as any residual moisture will threaten the survival of your tree. Pack the soil firmly around the roots when planting. Air around the roots will be detrimental to your plant. Watering Water your lime tree frequently, every 7-10 days if it is in the ground and everyday if in container. They do better with regular sprinklings than with a heavy soaking. Mulching Citrus trees, in general, do well with an organic mulch that keeps the soil pH optimal and retains moisture. Apply 2 to 5 centimetres of pine bark mulch to protect the roots from UV damage and drying out. It retains moisture, and maintains an optimal pH. Do not let the mulch touch the plant stem, as it may cause infection or rot. Fertilising Lime trees tend to feed quite heavily on the soil around them, depleting its natural nutrient content quickly. Use our slow-release nitrogen-rich all plant fertiliser Apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months. Pruning Lime trees are particularly easy to care for because they don’t require much in the way of pruning. However, for optimal condition, it’s wise to prune them at least once every year or two. This helps to prevent disease, strengthen the limbs and produce better, healthier fruits. Pests and Diseases Aphids, citrus psylla, red scale, citrus greening. Spraying regularly with Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control ) will assist in either prevention or after the fact. If you already have aphids or mites, wash the tree with a harsh hosing, and when dry, spray with Neem oil or EM Control.  Practice good garden hygiene (remove fallen fruit and leaves). Watch for root rot (if overwatered) and fungal infections during wet periods.  Harvesting Your lime tree will likely produce fruit during summer, but some produce all year round. Pick the delicious sweet limes when they are yellow orange in colour.