This time of year the forecasts of cold and blustery weather remind us that we live quite far from a tropical climate. But even in North Dakota and Minnesota, you can have your own slice of the tropics, with a little know-how and some work. Citrus plants, including oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruits, can be grown at home by those looking for an adventurous experiment.
Growing Citrus in Containers
In our area, citrus plants can be grown in containers that can be outdoors in the summer and be moved indoors for the season at the first warning of frost. Many people leave the plants indoors year round and choose a dwarf variety, which reaches 6 feet in height, rather than the 10-12 feet of a regular variety.
Experts recommend you move the potted tree to a location in the warmest, sunniest part of the house, and water it well. These trees need more acidic water than what is available from our taps, says Tom Steele, growing manager at Shotwell Floral. He recommends using rain or snow water and using Miracle-Gro Acid Formula plant food.
Citrus trees will take as much sun as they can get, they like humidity and temperatures of 65 or warmer. They require a rich, fast-draining soil. Experts recommend keeping the soil moist, but not wet at all times.
“Depending on where people have them, they can do very well,” Steele says.
Steele sells quite a few of the trees, which vary in price depending upon the season, but usually are available for under $100 each. He orders about five different varieties from California – usually the dwarf varieties – and each tree arrives in a four gallon pot, with a height of 4-5 feet.
Steele has many customers who keep their citrus trees in sunrooms or near their indoor swimming pools or spas, since the trees crave sun and humidity.
The Good with the Bad
“You will get fruit – Mother Nature has that all planned out,” says Ryan Hoss, horticulturist and landscape designer at Baker Garden and Gift.
But the trees that take time to mature are also constantly shedding leaves. They are prone to spider mites and other insects, which can be taken care of using spray. Additional care includes pruning as the plants grow.
“It’s something fun and different,” Hoss says. “They have wonderfully smelling flowers that bloom periodically, which is nice.”
Hoss says if you want to try growing your own, plant a seed and have some patience. If you’re just quirky enough and you like experiments, give it a try. It also could be a fun project for your family to tackle.
