Key Lime Tree
Key Lime Tree
SKU:EDB-CIT-KEY-12-1G
Get Zesty with Your Own Key Lime Tree!
Imagine plucking a fresh, juicy key lime right from the branch. With your very own Key Lime Tree, that dream becomes a reality! Perfect for pies, zesty marinades, or a tangy twist to your beverages, this tree is a must-have for any culinary enthusiast.
Why You'll Love It:
- Compact Growth: Ideal for patios or small gardens, it's a tropical beauty that doesn't need much space.
- Everbearing Fruit: Enjoy a generous yield of limes all year round. More limes, more flavor, more fun!
- Easy Care: With simple watering and occasional feeding, this tree is low maintenance. Spend more time savoring and less time stressing!
Plant Perks:
Aside from the delicious fruit, the Key Lime Tree is a stunner with its glossy green leaves and fragrant white blossoms. It's not just a plant; it's a piece of living decor that enlivens any space.
Product Details
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Product Category
Edibles
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Product Subcategory:
Citrus
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Botanical Name:
Citrus aurantifolia
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Does Not Ship To:
AL, AZ, CA, FL, GA, LA, OR, TX
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Mature Height:
6-12 ft.
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Mature Width:
4-8 ft.
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Growing Zone:
4-11 patio / 8-11 outdoors
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Indoor Growing:
Indoors or Patio (non-freezing)
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Sunlight:
Full-Part Sun
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Growth Rate:
Moderate
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Harvest Time:
August and December
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Bloom Time:
Spring
Planting Directions
<h2>Planting a Key Lime Tree</h2>
<p>Key lime trees thrive in warm climates and require well-draining soil. Choose a sunny spot and follow these steps:</p>
<ul>
<li>Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball.</li>
<li>Place the tree in the hole, ensuring it's level with the surrounding soil.</li>
<li>Backfill the hole with soil, gently tamping down to remove air pockets.</li>
<li>Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.</li>
<li>Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Care and Maintenance</h2>
<p>For ongoing care, follow these guidelines:</p>
<ul>
<li>Water the tree regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.</li>
<li>Fertilize every few months with a citrus-specific fertilizer, following package instructions.</li>
<li>Prune any dead or crossing branches during the dormant season to maintain tree health and shape.</li>
<li>Protect the tree from frost by covering it or bringing it indoors if potted.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Pollination</h2>
<p>Key lime trees are self-fertile, but hand pollination can increase fruit set:</p>
<ul>
<li>Use a small brush to transfer pollen from one flower to another.</li>
<li>Alternatively, attract pollinators like bees to your garden by planting flowers nearby.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Harvesting</h2>
<p>Harvest key limes when they are green to light yellow and give slightly to pressure:</p>
<ul>
<li>Pick limes by twisting them until they come off the stem.</li>
<li>Use them fresh, or store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.</li>
</ul>
<p>Regular observation and care will help your key lime tree flourish. Enjoy the process and the fruits of your labor!</p>
FAQs
<h2>FAQs for the a Key Lime Tree</h2>
<h3>1. How do I plant a Key Lime Tree?</h3>
<ol>
<li><strong>Choose the Right Location:</strong> Select a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Key lime trees need at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.</li>
<li><strong>Prepare the Soil:</strong> Mix compost or aged manure into the planting area to enrich the soil. Ensure the pH is between 6.0 and 7.5 for optimal growth.</li>
<li><strong>Dig a Hole:</strong> Make the hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball of your tree.</li>
<li><strong>Plant the Tree:</strong> Remove the tree from its container and gently loosen the roots. Place it in the hole, ensuring it's standing straight. Fill the hole with soil and water thoroughly.</li>
<li><strong>Watering:</strong> Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the first few weeks to help establish roots.</li>
</ol>
<h3>2. How do I fertilize my Key Lime Tree?</h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Young Trees:</strong> Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced citrus fertilizer.</li>
<li><strong>Mature Trees:</strong> Reduce fertilization to 3-4 times a year. Apply in late winter, early summer, and mid-fall.</li>
<li><strong>Application:</strong> Spread the fertilizer evenly under the canopy of the tree and water it in well.</li>
<li><strong>Note:</strong> Avoid over-fertilization as it can lead to salt accumulation and burn the roots.</li>
</ul>
<h3>3. How do I ensure good pollination for my Key Lime Tree?</h3>
<p><strong>Key lime trees are self-fertile,</strong> meaning they do not require another tree to produce fruit. However, encouraging bees and other pollinators can increase fruit production. Plant pollinator-friendly flowers nearby, avoid using pesticides that harm bees, and consider gently shaking the branches during flowering to help distribute pollen.</p>
<h3>4. How do I water my Key Lime Tree?</h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Frequency:</strong> Water young trees 2-3 times a week. Reduce to once a week for established trees, adjusting for rainfall and temperature.</li>
<li><strong>Method:</strong> Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to apply water directly to the root zone.</li>
<li><strong>Monitoring:</strong> Ensure the soil is moist but not soggy. Overwatering can lead to root rot.</li>
</ul>
<h3>5. When and how do I harvest Key Limes?</h3>
<ol>
<li><strong>Timing:</strong> Key limes are typically ready to harvest in late summer to early fall. They turn from green to light yellow when ripe.</li>
<li><strong>Method:</strong> Gently twist the lime until it comes off the stem. Avoid pulling directly to prevent damage to the tree.</li>
<li><strong>Storage:</strong> Key limes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, juice the limes and freeze the juice.</li>
</ol>
<p>By following these guidelines, you can successfully plant, care for, and enjoy the fruits of your Key Lime Tree. Remember, patience and consistent care are key to cultivating a healthy and productive tree. Happy gardening!</p>