How to grow citrus trees in pots

Gone are the days of needing a big, old-fashioned backyard to have citrus on hand. Thanks to plant breeders, you can now have your very own mini citrus orchard in your suburban backyard or on your sunny balcony, with a range of dwarf varieties more than happy to live in large pots.

From lemons and limes to oranges and mandarins, here’s everything you need to know about growing happy and healthy citrus trees in pots.

Which citrus varieties grow in pots?

Lots a’ Lemons and Dwarf Eureka, both lemons, are two popular citrus varieties that grow in pots. For a small lime try Dwarf Tahitian or one of the Australian native limes, like the finger lime, also known as the ‘caviar of citrus’.

Citrus splitzers are multi-grafted citrus that provide the best of both worlds, bearing both lime and lemons (and other combinations) on one plant and are ideal for large pots. Mandarins, cumquats and calamondins also make good potted plants.

How to grow citrus trees in pots

Select a large pot to grow your citrus tree and put the pot into its final position before you begin to fill it with potting mix. A happy citrus tree home will be a pot with several large drainage holes in the bottom that is elevated slightly off the ground. This can be easily achieved by raising the pot on pot feet or bricks.

Once you’ve selected the right pot, don’t skimp on potting mix. Buy a good quality mix that meets the Australian standard (look for ticks of approval on the bag) and make sure you have enough to fill the pot to within about 4cm of the rim to allow space for watering. For a large pot — one that’s over 40cm in diameter — you’ll need several bags.

Modern potting mixes provide good drainage, but for a plant that’s going to be in a large pot for a long time, it is best to add about 10 per cent soil to the potting mix, combining it well. This prevents the mix from slumping — that is, diminishing in the pot — so the plant is sitting well below the top of the pot. Water the plant in well, firming it into the potting mix.

How to care for potted citrus trees

It’s little wonder citrus trees are a popular choice for home gardens big and small, but while they are famously known for being easy to grow, giving your citrus regular care and attention goes a long way. Here’s what you need to know to get the most from your potted citrus.

How much sun do potted citrus trees need?

Citrus need full sun, something we fortunately have an abundance of in Australia. This means placing them in the sunniest part of your garden or balcony, especially during winter when they fruit. While citrus trees are happiest in warm, sunny conditions, there are some varieties that are more cold-tolerant such as the Meyer lemon and Satsuma mandarin.

How often should you water potted citrus trees?

Potted citrus need to be watered two to three times a week. In very hot or windy weather, particularly when your tree is in flower or forming small fruit, it may need deep daily watering. Always make sure the water soaks into the potting mix and doesn’t simply run through without soaking in.

Citrus trees also need to be well nourished. The best way to provide all the nutrients they need is to use a complete citrus food. This should be applied in small amounts once a month from August to mid-autumn. Water the pot well when applying any fertiliser.

How long does it take for a potted citrus tree to fruit?

Generally, citrus trees take around three years to begin bearing fruit, provided they have adequate sunlight and good drainage. Like any gardening endeavour, patience is key. Once your citrus tree begins flowering, know that fruit should be on the horizon, and once your citrus tree starts exploding with fruit, it will likely continue for decades to come.

Common potted citrus pests

To avoid pest problems, regularly spray new growth with horticultural spray oil such as PestOil. This treatment controls pesky citrus leafminer and aphids along with sap suckers like spined citrus bugs.

Shop the best pots and planters for citrus trees

Ryker Stonelite round planter

$274, Temple & Webster

Designed to endure harsh weather conditions, this white planter provides a sturdy and chic home for your citrus tree. At 53cm in height, width and depth, this minimalist pot is also a great size for dwarf citrus plants.

Key features:

Crafted from 100% polyethylene
Ridged design adds dimension and texture
30-day return policy

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Northcote Kriti extra large terracotta pot

$35.18,Bunnings

Add a touch of Mediterranean charm with this extra-large terracotta pot from Bunnings. Not only are terracotta pots timeless and rustic, but they are also naturally porous, reducing the risk of root rot.

Key features:

Drainage hole
Porous clay construction increases drainage
Classic design and rustic charm

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Freedom Avutto large planter in grey

$199,Freedom

Made from a blend of stone, powder stone, plastic and fibreglass, the Avutto garden planter is built to withstand the elements and look chic doing it. Thanks to its large size and bowl-shaped silhouette, the Avutto will make a spacious home for your new citrus plant.

Key features:

Made from a durable blend of stone, power stone, plastic and fibreglass
Chic grey design
Wide bowl shape provides plenty of room for growth

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Northcote Green studded pot

$99.98,Bunnings

If you’re after a glazed look, this gorgeous green pot ticks all the boxes. Not only does it offer an eye-catching shiny look, but a glazed pot like this one offers reduced water loss (a tick so long as you have drainage holes) and plenty of support to the weight of a mature citrus tree.

Key features: