How to Grow a Lime Tree Indoors for Fresh Citrus Any Time, According to Gardening Experts

Enjoy the refreshing flavor of limes any time by growing a lime tree indoors. Lime trees (Citrus aurantiifolia) are believed to be native to Southeast Asia, but these plants can grow indoors in any region with the right conditions. It typically takes about three to five years for a lime tree to produce fruit. Alternatively, you can purchase one that's already producing fruit from your local plant nursery if you don't want to wait.

Lime trees can grow 15 to 20 feet tall in their native climate, but there are also dwarf varieties ideal for indoor growing. Ahead, seasoned lime-growing experts reveal their best tips for growing a lime tree indoors, from planting to pruning.

Best Types of Limes to Grow Indoors

Dwarf lime varieties are best for indoor growing as they are better suited for container gardens and small spaces. Eva Ward, co-owner of Ward’s Nursery and Garden Center, recommends growing Dwarf Persian lime. This variety yields perfect small- to medium-sized limes with thin skin.

“Other interesting varieties to consider are Dwarf Red limes and Dwarf Key limes,” she says. “Red limes have reddish to pinkish skin and flesh, offering a milder, sweeter flavor compared to traditional limes.” Key limes are small and round, known for their tart fruit and aromatic flavor, which is primarily used in the famous Key lime pie.

How to Plant a Lime Tree Indoors

After purchasing a lime tree from your local nursery, plant it in a new pot with a drainage hole. "When selecting a pot for any houseplant, you should only increase the size by a few inches, typically 2 to 4 inches," says Ward. For example, if your lime tree is in an 8-inch pot, Ward recommends upgrading to a pot that is 10 to 12 inches wide.

Follow these steps to cultivate a successful transition for your new lime tree.

1. Gently remove the tree from its old pot, being careful not to damage the roots. If necessary, trim any overly long or damaged roots.
2. Add a layer of fresh, well-draining potting mix, such as a citrus-specific blend or a cactus mix, to the bottom of the new pot.
3. Place the rootball in the center of the pot, filling around the roots with more soil until the tree is at the same soil level as it was in the old pot.
4. Water around the base of the tree thoroughly after repotting.

How to Care for a Lime Tree Indoors

With your new lime tree in a suitable pot, it’s time to create an optimal environment for excellent growth conditions.

Sunlight

Lime trees require about eight hours of bright, direct, or indirect sunlight per day. “A south- or west-facing window is the best spot for your tree,” says Ward. If natural sunlight is limited, supplement it with grow lights.

Soil

Lime trees need well-draining, slightly acidic soil. “You can use a citrus-specific potting mix or amend regular potting soil with perlite or sand to improve drainage,” Ward says. Good drainage is critical because waterlogged soil can cause root rot, a common issue for indoor citrus trees.

Water

Water your lime tree when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feels dry to the touch (about once every seven to 10 days, depending on humidity and temperature). “Avoid overwatering, as lime trees are susceptible to root rot," says Ward. During colder months, the tree may need less frequent watering, so adjust as needed.

Temperature

Lime trees thrive in warm conditions, ideally with temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit indoors. While these citrus plants can tolerate cooler temperatures, you'll need to adjust your watering habits accordingly, as they won’t require as much water in cooler conditions, Ward says.

How to Prune a Lime Tree

Pruning lime trees should be done in early spring and late summer. The goal of pruning a citrus tree is to promote airflow and strengthen the branches, says Erin Benken, perennial manager at Wards Nursery and Garden Center.

She recommends cutting off weak branches down to the base, including dead or brittle ones. Also check for branches that are crossing, removing the smaller ones to improve the plant's overall structure.

In addition to enhancing airflow, pruning can also be used to shape the tree. Benken advises removing 2 to 6 inches from the ends of the branches to encourage new growth.

How and When to Repot a Lime Tree

Repot your lime tree in early spring before its growing season, says Benken.

1. Choose a pot that is 2 inches larger than your current one. (Avoid a pot that is too large, which can lead to root damage if the plant is overwatered.)
2. Carefully remove the lime tree from its pot.
3. Score the sides of the root ball to encourage the development of new air roots that will grow into the fresh soil. (Scoring involves making shallow cuts on a plant's roots, encouraging the roots to spread out and establish better in new soil.)
4. Add about 1/3 of the pot's depth of well-draining soil into the new pot and lightly dampen it. (You can use a spray bottle to lightly dampen the new soil).
5. Place the lime tree into the new pot on top of the soil. (The top of the plant should be 1 to 2 inches under the rim of the pot.)
6. Fill in the rest of the pot with soil, making sure the plant is center and straight.
7. Firmly pack the soil into the new pot so the plant is secure.
8. Water the base of the plant thoroughly.

How to Harvest Limes

Harvesting limes from your tree requires patience. “It’s important to wait for the limes to mature and soften slightly,” says Benken. As the fruit ripens, its color will gradually change to a lighter shade of green and will slightly soften, indicating that it’s ready to be harvested. To collect the fruit, gently twist it off from the stem.

How to Propagate a Lime Tree

You can easily propagate a lime tree by cutting a stem from a healthy branch that has leaf nodes. Here's how to do it, according to the experts.

1. Select a healthy stem free of disease and with multiple leaf nodes.
2. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle just below a leaf node.
3. Remove the bottom 2 inches of leaves from the cutting, leaving a few at the top.
4. Optional: Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to stimulate growth.
5. Place the cutting into a pot with well-draining soil.
6. Water thoroughly, and place the pot in a warm, sunny location.

How to Get Your Tree to Produce Fruit

To encourage your citrus tree to bear fruit, Benken says you need to focus on three main factors—fertilizer, water, and light.

• Fertilizer: Limes benefit from an acidic fertilizer, which should be applied once a month.
• Light: Lime trees require bright light, with southwestern exposure being the most effective.
• Watering: Consistent watering is essential for a lime tree. It's best to water thoroughly, ensuring that the root ball is soaked. Allow the plant to dry slightly before watering again.

By paying attention to these key elements, you can help your lime tree thrive and produce fruit.