Can I Grow Citrus In My Landscape?

Citrus plants are very versatile around the home and may be used on their own, as hedges or in containers (many sizes are available). Their appearance, fragrance, and yield of fruit make them a desired tree to have in a Lowcountry Landscape.

Meyer Lemon Tree

Cold hardy, seedless, large harvest, fruit ripens late summer through the fall

Satsuma

Cold tolerant & able to withstand light freezes, fruit ripens before the cold, long period of yielding fruit (generally September through November).

Persian Lime

seedless & large fruit, cold hardy, combines the key lime and lemon, can be grown indoors or outside

Red Ruby Grapefruit

seedless & easy to peel, harvested through the Fall & winter, thrives on patios

Loquat

Cold tolerant, small time frame of fruit but large yield

Blood Orange

cold hardy & loves humidity, prefers 6-8 hours of sunlight, fruit has a berry aftertaste

FERTILIZING & pH

The pH of the soil around citrus trees should be between 6.0 and 7.0.

Newly planted citrus trees should be fertilized after growth begins in the Spring with a complete fertilizer (8-8-8 or 10-10-10). It is recommended that during the first two years, fertilization takes place between March and July.

Lawn and shrub fertilizer may be used on citrus trees. If a specific citrus fertilizer is available, that will supply specific micronutrients that will benefit the tree. Three applications per year are recommended.

NOTE: Each plant and landscape should be assessed for their specific fertilization needs.

WEEDING & PRUNING

In general, citrus trees do not need to be pruned. If in the summer, dead, damaged, or diseased limbs are visible, make cuts flush with the trunk of the tree.

Removing weeds and lawn grasses from the base and canopy of citrus trees will benet the tree. Mulching is not necessary and should not be placed within 12 inches of the trunk.

WATERING

Citrus trees will be the healthiest when drip irrigation is utilized. Adequate water should be provided as needed, in early spring and any dry spells during the summer heat.

ADDITIONAL NOTES

During the first few years after planting, your citrus tree may not bear fruit. By year three or four, your tree should be yielding normal fruit.

Citrus trees can be planted on their own as they do not require cross-pollination with another tree.