Kaffir lime trees are very happy growing in tubs and planters, over time the root zone can get restricted so it is wise every few seasons to re-pot them into larger tubs.
How long does it take to grow kaffir lime?
As long as your tree has access to enough water and sunlight, it should produce fruit at maturity. For cuttings, this often takes around three years. Plants grown from seed can take up to ten years to fruit either indoors or outdoors.
When should I repot my kaffir lime tree?
Plants can be repotted in the spring or summer if they are starting to out grow their existing pots– a citrus compost is best as it needs acid soil. Over time you may wish to prune this bush in the winter to keep a compact shape.
How tall do kaffir lime trees grow?
3–4m high
Kaffir limes need a warm, temperate to tropical climate. They prefer hot summers and mild, dry winters. Cropping starts in autumn and can extend for a few months during the cool seasons, fruit remaining fresh longest if left on the tree. Mature trees reach 3–4m high, just right for a specimen shrub, tree or hedge.
Can you eat kaffir lime fruit?
While less common, the zest and rind of kaffir limes are used in some Southeastern dishes and in Cambodia, they even candy the entire fruit to enjoy as a treat.
Do all kaffir lime trees have thorns?
Lime trees developed thorns as a way to discourage hungry animals from nibbling on their tender young leaves: In the case of Kaffir limes, strong spines up to 1 ½ inches long protrude from the branches just beneath each cluster of lemon-scented leaves. The thorns on small, shrubby Key limes are just as sharp.
What are the best pots for citrus trees?
A half whiskey barrel is my favorite size for growing citrus. Large ceramic or terra cotta pots also work well. Look for a container that is at least 2 feet wide (61 cm) and 2 feet (61 cm) deep. It should hold at least 20 gallons (about 2 cubic feet of soil) or more.
Do lime trees need full sun?
Plant selection
Limes and most lemons do not need full sun or long periods of heat to ripen fruit.
How do you transplant a kaffir lime tree?
I put a couple of inches of new soil at the bottom, mixed with organic fertilizer, placed the Kaffir lime in, then added soil mixed with fertilizer around and on top. Use a small trowel to probe the area between the plant and the pot to make sure that new soil fills any air pockets. Water deeply.
Do kaffir lime trees need to be grafted?
Kaffir lime is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 to 11, but trees intended for outdoor use should be grafted onto more vigorous rootstock.
What is the difference between kaffir lime and lime?
Kaffir limes are known more for their leaves while regular (western) limes are used more for their zest and juice. The skin of the kaffir limes is warty and it doesn’t give a lot of juice. On the other hand, regular western limes are often smooth and usually contain more juices.
How cold can kaffir lime tolerate?
Kaffir lime prefers a warm, moist environment.
It can survive 0 ℃ briefly, but to avoid damage, keep it above 5 ℃ in winter. Kaffir lime has a high need for water. Especially in spring and fall, when it grows vigorously, regular and deep watering is needed to keep the soil moist.
What can I do with excess kaffir limes?
Kaffir lime fruit can be turned into delicious marmalade and curd and the juice can be added to drinks. The zest from kaffir lime is an ingredient for Thai curry pastes and can also be used in cakes and other dishes for its aromatic properties.
Can you freeze kaffir limes?
How to Freeze Kaffir Limes. Kaffir limes, much like standard limes, can be frozen. The method is actually very similar if you plan on freezing them whole. Simply toss them into a freezer bag, seal up and then store in the freezer.
Is there a dwarf lime tree?
The Dwarf Key Lime tree will only grow 2′ tall, and in about 1-3 years, it will bear juicy, nearly seedless limes about the size of a golf ball. Use the fruit as garnish for cold drinks, squeeze the juice to liven up your drinks, and bake into key lime pies.
Are terracotta pots good for citrus trees?
The best pot for a lemon tree is a terra cotta or unglazed ceramic pot with drainage holes. Lemon trees thrive in well-drained soil, and the type of pot you choose can be instrumental in promoting good drainage and preventing root rot.
What can you not plant near citrus trees?
Avoid planting thirsty or shallow-rooted plants within the driplines of citrus trees; the water needs of these plants may encourage disease and pest infestation in citrus.
How do you keep citrus trees small?
The only way to keep them small is by pruning. Pruning is critical in developing a smaller size. As intimidating as it may be, do not let the ultimate size of the tree discourage you from not keeping it small to suit your needs.
Do lime trees grow well in pots?
A dwarf variety of lime tree is the best choice when growing lime trees in containers. Regardless, the tree will undoubtedly need repotting after about three to four years, or you can remove the tree from the pot, prune the roots (take 2-3 inches (5-8 cm.)
Can lime trees live in pots?
If you’re short of sunny spots in the garden, grow citrus in pots that can be moved to take advantage of changing patterns of sunlight. Potted limes should be grown in a good quality mix (such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter) and moved into larger containers as they grow.
Can I leave my lime tree outside in winter?
Most citrus trees can handle a light frost, but any temperature below 32°F can be detrimental to its health. Keep your tree inside until you are sure the last spring frost in your area has passed, and the average nightly temperature is above 40°F before preparing to move your citrus tree outside.