Collection: Citrus Trees

Citrus trees will grow happily in the UK with the right care. In warmer areas such as the south coast they will be fine grown outdoors, but in colder parts of the UK they will need some winter protection, or to be grown in a conservatory or greenhouse.

Citrus trees you can grow successfully in the UK include lemons, limes and oranges, as well as some types of mandarins and kumquats. Always choose a variety that has been bred for UK growing, as it will be hardier in our climate.

As all of our citrus trees are pot grown, you can plant them at any time of year when the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged. The best time is in spring, after the risk of frost has passed. This allows the tree a good long growing season to establish itself before winter.

Citrus trees do best in a sunny, sheltered spot. Plant them in well-draining soil in a south or west facing position if possible, where they’ll get at least six to eight hours of sunlight daily. They’ll also do well in a large patio pot, or in a conservatory or greenhouse.

Citrus trees like consistently moist (but not waterlogged) soil. Water them regularly, especially during hot or dry periods, and more frequently if they’re in pots.

Citrus trees benefit from regular feeding during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a high nitrogen citrus feed, applied according to the instructions on the pack.

When it gets cold in the winter, move your potted citrus trees indoors or into a greenhouse. For trees planted in the ground, wrap them with horticultural fleece or bubble wrap to protect them from the frost.

Prune your citrus trees in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to keep the tree in shape. Avoid heavy pruning for the first few years, as this can reduce fruit production.

Citrus trees will usually start fruiting within 2-4 years of planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

Citrus trees are a good choice for growing indoors, and thrive in conservatories or (in the case of smaller plants) on sunny windowsills. Make sure the variety you choose is suitable for container growing, plant it in the sunniest place you can, and keep the room/greenhouse well ventilated.