The required nutrients may well be available in the soil, but the plant is not able to take them up efficiently. This “Winter Chlorosis” signals a nutritional deficiency, however it is usually a result of cold temperatures and a reduction in active soil biology that cause the problem. Yellowing of foliage in winter and into early spring is a common problem. The optimal temperature for growing citrus is between 25 and 30°c, with growth stopping completely at 38°c and 13°c.* Generally a warm position in full sun is ideal.

It is important to provide frost protection for young trees, and to consider the microclimate in your back yard to optimise the growth and fruit yield. Citrus trees can tolerate high temperatures well into the 40’s, and some can survive down to a few degrees below zero. Originating from warmer climates, various citrus are remarkably adapted to a range of climatic conditions. (Ideally, nothing smaller than 100L and up to 200L is advisable.) Dwarf cultivars are available that can even be grown in large pots.

Most home gardens have room for one or two citrus trees. Records show that oranges, lemons and limes arrived in Australia with the first fleet in 1788.Ĭitrus plants are always a popular choice in home gardens. Originating from the tropics of South East Asia, citrus were introduced into the Middle East by at least 500BC and spread further into Europe with the expansion of the Roman Empire.

Pruning lemon trees download free