How to Grow Citrus

Citrus

Citrus spp.

tree

Citrus encompasses a diverse genus of evergreen trees and shrubs that produce fragrant flowers and vitamin C-rich fruits. These subtropical to tropical plants are widely cultivated for fresh consumption, juice, zest, and essential oils. Most citrus varieties are long-lived, productive trees that can thrive in containers or in-ground.

Looking for a specific variety?

Navel Orange Valencia Orange Clementine Eureka Lemon Tahitian Lime Grapefruit Tangelo Satsuma

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun, 8+ hours daily; morning sun helps dry dew and prevent fungal disease

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Water: Deep, infrequent watering; allow top 2-3 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter; avoid waterlogging; consistent moisture during fruit development increases yield

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Spacing: 180-240 inches (15-20 feet apart for standard trees; 8-10 feet for dwarf varieties) inches

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Days to maturity: 900-1200 days (3-4 years from planting to first fruit; full productivity at 5-7 years)

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Planting depth: Plant at same depth as container (graft union 1-2 inches above soil level); do not plant union below ground

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy to sandy soil with good organic matter content

pH: 6.0-7.5

Amendments:

Compost or aged bark mulch Peat moss or coir for moisture retention Perlite or sand for drainage in heavy clay soils Citrus-specific fertilizer with micronutrients (zinc, iron, magnesium)

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 8b-11; cold-hardy varieties tolerate zone 8a; containers allow growing in cooler regions

8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b 11a 11b

Growth Stages

Establishment (Year 1)

12 months

Young tree developing root system and canopy; limited flowering; leaves are light green

Remove flower buds first year to encourage root/shoot development; water regularly; prune to shape; provide wind protection; apply light feeding

Vegetative Growth (Years 2-3)

12-24 months

Increasing branch structure and foliage density; occasional flowering may occur; deeper green coloring

Thin some flower buds to direct energy to growth; maintain consistent watering and nutrition; prune to open canopy; monitor for pests

Flowering

2-4 weeks

Fragrant white or pale pink blossoms appear in spring; flowers attract pollinators; heavy bloom indicates maturity

Ensure adequate potassium and phosphorus; maintain steady moisture; light hand-thinning of excessive blooms reduces disease pressure; avoid disturbing trees during bloom

Fruit Development & Growth

2-4 months

Tiny green fruit emerges from flower; grows steadily; may require thinning; fruit hardens and increases in size

Thin fruit to 1 per cluster or 6-8 inches apart for larger quality fruit; maintain consistent deep watering; apply balanced fertilizer; provide shade cloth in extreme heat

Ripening & Harvest

2-8 weeks (harvest window varies by variety)

Fruit develops full color and sweetness; skin thickens; sugar content peaks; ready for harvest typically 6-12 months after flowering

Monitor ripeness by taste and color (not all citrus fully colors before peak ripeness); support heavy branches; avoid picking underripe fruit; maintain moisture for quality

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Allium (onions, garlic, chives) Tansy Borage Marigold Nasturtium Rue Clover

Avoid planting near:

Walnut Fennel Dill Mint (can spread aggressively and attract pests)

Common Pests

Inspect new trees, remove infested foliage, apply horticultural oil or neem oil; attract natural predators like parasitic wasps; quarantine infected trees
Prune affected foliage, apply spinosad or horticultural oil to new growth; encourage natural predators; use reflective mulches
Spray with horticultural oil during dormancy or when crawler stage is active; prune heavily infested branches; encourage ladybugs and parasitic wasps
Increase humidity, spray with water to dislodge, apply miticide or sulfur; avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer; prune dense foliage
Remove with soft brush and alcohol, prune infested branches; apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; release parasitic wasps
No cure; remove infected trees, sterilize tools; purchase disease-free stock; maintain sanitation; report to local agricultural extension
No cure; control psyllid vector with insecticides; remove infected trees; quarantine practices; plant resistant rootstocks

Uses

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Fresh fruit & juice

Culinary

Citrus is consumed fresh, juiced for beverages, or used in cooking and baking. Rich in vitamin C and natural sugars, citrus is a staple in breakfast preparations, marinades, dressings, and desserts worldwide. [source]

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Zest & flavoring

Culinary

The colored outer skin contains aromatic oils used to zest into dishes, baked goods, and cocktails. A small amount of zest adds bright, intense flavor without the acidity of juice. [source]

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Immune support & antioxidants

Medicinal

High in vitamin C, flavonoids, and polyphenols that support immune function and reduce oxidative stress. Traditionally used in herbal medicine to prevent colds and support overall wellness. [source]

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Essential oils & cleaning

Household

Citrus peel oil contains d-limonene, a natural solvent used in cleaning products, degreasers, and aromatherapy. The peels themselves can be dried and simmered for natural fragrance. [source]

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Pollinator attraction

Wildlife

Fragrant citrus flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting beneficial insect populations in the garden. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Citrus does not ripen after picking; harvest when fully mature using hand twist or pruning shears to avoid damage. Most citrus reaches peak ripeness 2-3 weeks after color change. Taste-test before harvesting. Pick from top and outside of tree first. Wear gloves to protect skin from oil-rich thorns. Leave 1/2 inch of stem attached to extend shelf life. Store at room temperature for fragrance or refrigerate for longer storage (2-4 weeks).

Fun Facts

🌱 Citrus trees can live and produce fruit for 50+ years; some heritage trees are over 200 years old and still fruiting.

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