Lime is one of the most popular kinds of citrus in the United States today. If you have a lime tree in your backyard or are planning on planting one soon, there are several things you should know before planting this wonderful fruit tree.
Varieties
There are a number of lime varieties that are popular in the United States, but the two most popular are the Key Lime (also known as the Mexican Lime) and the Tahiti Lime (also known as the Persian Lime). Key Limes are sweeter and bear small fruit that is about two inches in size. Tahiti Limes are larger and bear fruit that is approximately thee to four inches in size.
Lime Tree Care
Lime trees do well in regions with moderate climates during the winter months. On average, the temperature should range between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. If your climate varies outside of that range, especially if it is colder, you should consider planting your lime tree in a container that can be moved inside during cold winter months.
You should also feed your lime trees often, since they require a great deal of soil nutrients. Use a fertilizer that is specially formulated for citrus fruit. Fertilize every few months in order to make sure that the trees have the right level of soil nutrients. Without regular feeding, limes will drop their leaves and will fail to flower or bear fruit.
Planting
First, begin by selecting a spot in your backyard that will give your tree at least eight hours of sunlight per day. Lime trees need a great deal of sunlight in order to thrive, particularly during their high growth periods.
Next, dig a hole that is approximately six to nine inches larger around than the root ball of the tree. Dig the hole deep enough to not only place the tree inside it, but also so that the root ball will actually be covered completely with soil.
Take the soil from the hole you have just dug and supplement it with a fertilizer designed for citrus trees. Also, if the soil is not prone to good drainage, supplement it with organics like sand or mulch that will help improve water flow.
Back fill the soil into the hole around the root ball, taking care to push it down firmly and slightly above the root ball.