Rare Citrus Bundle: Green Finger Lime & Red Finger Lime

Planting Location and Soil Preparation

Choose a sunny location for your citrus tree that receives at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Well-draining soil is essential to prevent waterlogged roots. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider amending it with compost to improve drainage.  Citrus trees a particularly high demand for nitrogen.

Planting Your Citrus Tree

Plant your citrus tree any time of the year. Follow these steps:

• Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and just as deep.
• Gently remove the tree from its container and loosen the roots.
• Place the tree in the hole at the same depth it was in the container and backfill with soil.
• Water thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.

Watering

Proper watering is vital for healthy citrus trees. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. During the growing season, water every 1-2 weeks, allowing the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering frequency during winter.

Fertilizing

Citrus trees have specific nutritional needs and a particularly high demand for nitrogen. Feed your tree with a balanced citrus fertilizer or a granular fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 2:1:1. Apply fertilizer every 6-8 weeks from spring to early fall, reducing or stopping during winter.

Pruning

Regular pruning maintains the shape, health, and fruit production of your citrus tree. Prune to:

• Remove dead or diseased branches.
• Thin out overcrowded growth.
• Open the canopy to sunlight and air circulation.
• Shape the tree for better aesthetics and easier harvesting.

Pest and Disease Management

Keep a close eye on your citrus trees for signs of pests or diseases. Common pests include aphids, scales, and mites. Monitor for citrus-specific diseases like citrus canker and huanglongbing (citrus greening). Use organic pest control methods whenever possible.

Frost Protection

If you live in an area prone to frost, take precautions to protect your citrus trees until they are well-established. Cover them with frost cloth or blankets when frost is expected, and consider moving potted citrus indoors during colder months.

Mulching

Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of your citrus tree to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health. Keep the mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot.

Harvesting Citrus Fruits

Harvest your citrus fruits when they are fully ripe. Different varieties have varying ripening times, usually ranging from several months to a year. Fruits should be firm, fully colored, and easy to detach from the tree. Use pruning shears or a sharp knife to cut the fruit, leaving a small stem attached.

By following this comprehensive growing guide, you'll be well-equipped to nurture healthy and fruitful citrus trees that provide you with a continuous supply of delectable and nutritious citrus delights.

Happy citrus tree growing!

Quick Care Guide

Full Growing Guide

Climate and Soil Requirements

• Climate: Green Finger Lime thrives in warm, temperate to subtropical climates, ideally suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11. The tree prefers temperatures between 70-90°F and can tolerate brief periods of cold, though protection from frost is necessary. In cooler climates, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, sandy loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Enrich the soil with organic matter, ensuring excellent drainage to prevent root rot.

Planting

1. Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, though partial shade is tolerated. Green Finger Lime can be planted in the ground or in containers, making it adaptable to various growing conditions.
2. Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by tilling and adding compost or organic matter to enhance fertility and drainage.
3. Planting Time: Plant in the spring after the last frost, when the soil has warmed up. If planting in containers, ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate the tree’s growth and has adequate drainage.
4. Spacing: Space trees 4-6 feet apart or maintain proper spacing if growing in containers to allow for air circulation.

Watering

• Consistent Moisture: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Green Finger Lime requires moderate watering, especially during dry spells, but should not be overwatered.
• Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Sunlight and Fertilizing

• Full Sun to Partial Shade: Ensure the tree receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Partial shade is acceptable, especially in hot climates.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and fruiting. Supplement with a citrus-specific fertilizer during the growing season. Fertilize every 6-8 weeks during the growing season for best results.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Routine Pruning: Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree. Be mindful of the thorns when pruning. Regular pruning helps to maintain a manageable size and promotes better air circulation and light penetration.
• Maintenance: Green Finger Lime is relatively low-maintenance once established. Keep the area around the tree clear of weeds and debris to prevent pests and diseases.

Pest and Disease Management

• Common Pests: Monitor for pests such as aphids, scale, and citrus leafminers. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
• Diseases: Green Finger Lime is relatively disease-resistant, but it’s important to watch for signs of citrus canker, anthracnose, and root rot. Ensure proper spacing, good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk.

Harvesting Fruit

• When to Harvest: Green Finger Limes typically ripen from late summer to early fall. The fruit is ready to pick when it reaches full size and the skin turns slightly soft to the touch.
• How to Harvest: Gently twist or cut the fruit from the tree, being careful of the thorns. The fruit can be stored for a short period but is best enjoyed fresh to experience the full burst of citrus caviar.

Shop all of our unique Citrus Tree varieties

Quick Care Guide

Full Growing Guide

Climate and Soil Requirements

• Climate: Red Finger Limes thrive in warm, sunny climates and are best suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11. They prefer mild to warm temperatures and are sensitive to frost, making them ideal for subtropical and tropical regions. In cooler climates, they can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter.
• Soil: Red Finger Limes prefer well-draining, sandy loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). The tree benefits from soil enriched with organic matter, such as compost, to improve fertility and moisture retention while ensuring good drainage.

Planting

1. Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Red Finger Lime trees can tolerate some partial shade, but full sun is ideal for optimal growth and fruit production.
2. Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by loosening it and mixing in compost or organic matter to enhance fertility and drainage.
3. Planting Time: Plant in the spring after the last frost, when the soil has warmed up. In warmer regions, fall planting is also suitable.
4. Spacing: Space trees 4-6 feet apart if planting in the ground, or use a large container with adequate drainage if growing in pots.

Watering

• Consistent Moisture: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Red Finger Limes require moderate watering, especially during dry spells, but should not be overwatered.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Sunlight and Fertilizing

• Full Sun to Partial Shade: Ensure the tree receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth. Supplement with a citrus-specific fertilizer during the growing season to support fruit development. Fertilize every 6-8 weeks during the growing season for best results.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Routine Pruning: Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree. Regular pruning helps to maintain a manageable size and promotes better air circulation and light penetration.
• Maintenance: Red Finger Lime trees are relatively low-maintenance once established. Keep the area around the tree clear of weeds and debris to prevent pests and diseases.

Pest and Disease Management

• Common Pests: Watch for pests such as aphids, scale, and citrus leafminers. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations as needed.
• Diseases: Red Finger Lime trees are relatively disease-resistant, but proper care will help prevent common issues such as root rot and fungal leaf spots. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimize disease risk.

Harvesting Red Finger Limes

When to Harvest:

• Red Finger Limes typically ripen from late summer to fall. The fruit is ready to harvest when it reaches full size, turns deep red or burgundy, and feels slightly firm to the touch.

How to Use:

• Red Finger Limes are perfect for garnishing cocktails, adding to seafood dishes, or using as a topping for desserts. The tiny vesicles add a burst of tangy flavor and a visually striking element to any dish, making them a favorite among chefs and food enthusiasts.

Shop all of our unique Citrus Tree varieties

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