| Our Feature Article Containerized Dwarf Citrus
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I grow a dwarf citrus tree at my home in the northeast?
A. Dwarf citrus trees can be successfully grown in containers throughout the United States. See: Cold weather citrus. For best results, place your dwarf citrus trees on a porch or patio in the spring, summer and early fall. As winter approaches and temperatures begin to drop in the thirties, bring your trees indoors and place in a window with a western or southern sun exposure. The fruit (on most varieties) will begin to ripen as you bring the trees indoors. Within a couple months, the trees will bloom again as they’re moved back outside for spring. Some varieties will actually blossom before they go outside.
Q. How large will the dwarf citrus trees grow?
A. All of our dwarf citrus trees are grafted onto rootstocks such as Poncirus Trifoliate and Brazilian Sour. Although some rootstocks will produce a slower growing citrus tree, they all have to be pruned occasionally. For example, a citrus tree that is grafted on Brazian Sour is usually vigorous in growth, while a tree that is grafted onto Poncirus Trifoliate will grow at a slightly slower pace. No matter the rootstock, if your tree is planted in a large container and never pruned, it could grow 10-12 feet tall. However, with some occasional pruning your tree can be kept at whatever height you desire. It will be much easier moving your dwarf citrus trees in and out for winter if they’re kept at a reasonable height of 4-5 feet.
Q. When will my dwarf citrus trees bear fruit?
A. All the dwarf citrus trees grown at Acorn Springs Farms are grafted specimens and are fruiting age when shipped. Depending on the time of year, your tree may arrive full of blooms and fruit. However, you can usually expect your tree to start blooming within a few weeks or months of receipt.
Q. My leaves are turning yellow and falling. What is wrong with my citrus tree?
A. Yellowing leaves are an indication of a watering problem, which includes over-watering, inadequate drainage or a combination of the two. The problem can be easily treated and prevented by using the correct soil mixture. We recommend using 3-parts pine bark nuggets to 1-part standard potting soil (Scott’s, Fafard, etc.). Whatever the soil mix, the key is to make sure that it drains and doesn’t stay overly moist.
Q. How often do I water my dwarf citrus tree?
A. Watering schedules can vary, depending on container size, drainage and location of the tree. Containerized citrus trees should be allowed to dry between waterings. If you’re unsure whether watering is necessary, do the finger test – stick your finger 2-3” into the soil. If it is dry, your tree needs water. See: Proper Watering
Q. How and when do I fertilize my citrus tree?
A. We recommend using a timed-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. We’ve experienced the best results with Lutz (8-4-8) Super Citrus Tablets. Osmocoteâ 17-6-10 also works well on citrus trees. Timed-release fertilizers seem to perform best because the gradual uptake of nutrients. They can be applied at anytime of the year, but it’s usually best to fertilize in early spring. Water-soluble fertilizers (such as Miracle Groâ ) will also work, but be careful not to over fertilize. They should be applied at the spring growth flush and periodically throughout the growing season. Do not use liquid fertilizers in the winter when growth is at a minimum. See: Fertilizer 101 Signs To Fertilizer
Q. Do I need two citrus trees for fruit production?
A. All dwarf citrus trees are self-fertile, meaning that only one tree is needed for fruit production.
Q. My citrus tree keeps dropping blooms and no fruit is forming. What am I doing wrong?
A. Although citrus trees are self-fertile, if they’re grown indoors year round, you may need to give the tree a little help with the pollination process. This can be done a couple of ways. The quickest and easiest is to give the tree a good shake when the flowers are open. You can also dab pollen from one flower to another using a cotton swab or small paintbrush. However, if your trees are outdoors, bees and butterflies usually do a great job of pollinating the tree.
See: Blossom and Fruit Drop
Q. My citrus tree looks nice, but I notice different leaf types and long thorns. What is this?
A. This is commonly known as a “sucker”. For more information, check out our Gardening 101 article on this subject.
Q. When will the fruit ripen?
A. Citrus fruits ripen at different times. We’ve written an article to help you make this determination. We also have a useful photo essay
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