Growing citrus plants can be a very rewarding experience, but there are several things to consider before starting out on this endeavor. Determining where it should grow is one of the first and most important decisions you will encounter. Growing citrus plants indoors provides many benefits, such as climate control, which cannot always be achieved when growing them outside. However, it also has its disadvantages, as it limits how large the plant can grow and how much sunlight it can receive. Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether to grow your citrus plant indoors or outdoors.
Living Decorations... With Pleasing Scents
By cultivating your citrus plant indoors, you reap the benefits of having a beautiful, living decoration displayed in your home or greenhouse, not to mention the wonderful tangy smell that floats from the plant and fills the room. For the best results, chose a species that does not grow to a very large size, such as a dwarf or miniature citrus variety. It is also important to note that citrus plants need full sunlight to be healthy, so they should be placed near a south-facing window in the winter. If you live in a very hot, dry area, they should be protected from the harsh mid-day sun in the summer, as it can burn their leaves.
Watch the Thermometer
One of the biggest advantages of growing citrus indoors is that you can regulate the temperature, as citrus trees are very susceptible to frost. However, be careful not to overheat your house. This can create a dry environment and may result in damage to the citrus plants, causingtheir blooms to fall off. Citrus trees need humidity in order to grow and produce fruit. You can provide for this need and combat drying effects by misting your plants daily.
The Outdoor Life
If you chose to grow your citrus plants outdoors, you have the advantage of a larger growing space for the tree to occupy, and consequently, greater fruit production. When growing outdoors, the citrus plant also has more access to sunlight. However, there are challenges to outdoor living, such as preventing and controlling frost. To combat this, cover plants when the weather predictions indicate freezing temperatures. Other challenges, such as managing for diseases and pruning can be more difficult. To protect your citrus plants from potential frost or disease, research the weather conditions in your area, as well as the types of diseases citrus trees are prone to contracting. By taking preventative measures, you can increase your chances of a successful growing season and harvest.
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