Citrus fruits are widely enjoyed in the UK and are now easier to grow from cultivated varieties. Citrus trees love the warmth, but if you’re wondering “can I grow a lemon tree in the UK?”, the answer is yes! While it is more possible in the Southern areas with under glass growing during winter, it is still possible elsewhere. Lemon trees and other citrus plants are a beautiful addition to a plot or garden with their floral displays.
Let’s talk about how to grow citrus plants, focusing specifically on lemon and orange trees.
We will discuss all the crucial details for a successful citrus harvest, from selecting the best variety to preparing the land and planting. If you have a lemon tree, or citrus plant and would like to share your growing story or some tips, register today and write a few lines!
Lemons are one of the easier citrus fruits to grow, along with oranges, limes and kumquats. The compact citrus trees are best grown in large containers so that they can be moved to greenhouses, conservatories or somewhere bright and frost-free during the winter months.
Where to grow your citrus tree depends on your home and space. Citrus trees do not thrive well in the warm and dry heat of centrally heated rooms, indoors. A cooler but light area, such as a conservatory or greenhouse is best during the colder months.
Growing citrus in the UK requires careful consideration of both timing and method to ensure successful growth.
Select a spot that has good soil drainage, and receives lots of light. Citrus trees prefer slightly acidic soil, so consider adding compost or peat moss to improve drainage and acidity if necessary.
When planting your citrus tree, Dig a hole twice as deep and wide as the root ball of the tree. If you're planting your lemon tree in a pot, pick a sizable container with holes for drainage and fill it with a potting mix that drains properly.
So, how often should you water your lemon tree, or other citrus plant? Typically, regular watering is necessary - they become particularly dry in compost but do not allow them to sit in water as the roots can rot and the leaves can turn yellow, which is a sign of overwatering.
Rainwater is particularly enjoyed by citrus trees where possible but if you are in doubt, allow the plant to dry out partially rather than saturate it.
Citrus trees like humidity rather than dry heat (like indoor central heating), you can help achieve this by misting and watering the floors of a greenhouse on a warm day.
In late winter, roughly; February time you can prune the Citrus tree to shape it and encourage new growth. During summer, pinch back the tips of the most vigorous shoots. Our monthly planner here may be more helpful!
If you are wondering when to pick citrus, we have got you covered!
Citrus tree fruits slowly form and ripen over several months; sometimes they can take up to one year. Once the fruit has grown to the desired size and has a rich skin colour it can be picked as and when required.
Learning how to grow citrus can help you open up different culinary opportunities.
Want to know how to grow citrus in a few easy steps? Read this!
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We always welcome your input and want to here your best stories, advice and tips. Register today and share your citrus tree growing journey here!
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