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Containing Your Citrus
Discover which citrus varieties thrive best in containers in the Bay Area of California and explore companion plants that not only thrive alongside your citrus but also enhance their growth and health.
Best Citrus for Containers:
- Meyer and New Zealand Lemonade Lemons: Compact size and prolific fruiting make them ideal for container gardening.
- Kaffir and Australian Finger Limes: Known for their aromatic leaves and small growth habit.
- Calamondin Oranges: Both decorative and highly productive.
- Meiwa and many other varieties of Kumquats: Small, hardy plants that produce sweet fruit.
Planting Steps:
- Choose the Right Container: Use a container at least 18-24 inches in diameter with good drainage. Please note, you may need to use a larger container based on the size of the root ball.
- Soil: Use a high-quality potting mix with excellent drainage. We recommend E.B. Stone Organics Citrus and Palm potting soil.
- Planting: Place the tree in the container at the same depth it was in the nursery pot. Fill in with soil, firm gently, and water thoroughly.
- Fertilizing: It's important to give your citrus the best start possible, especially when transitioning to a container. We recommend E.B. Stone Organics Citrus & Fruit Tree Food.
Companion Plants:
- Herbs: Basil, thyme, or oregano. They have similar water needs and can help deter pests.
- Flowers: Sweet alyssum, lantana (compact variety) cuphea, marigolds, nasturtiums, or calendulas. These attract beneficial insects and add color.
- Strawberries: Compact growth habit and they thrive in similar conditions.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy thriving citrus trees and complementary plants in your Bay Area garden.
