Can I grow a potted citrus tree in a low-light Brooklyn apartment?
Question:I don't really have much direct sunlight. But maybe I could get a lamp, or something. I just think it would be neat to grow an orange tree or lime tree, and I have heard that citrus blossoms smell awesome. Should I bother? Or will I just wind up killing it? And where would I buy a potted citrus in NYC anyway?
Answers:
Now is the time! I have grown lime, lemon, and orange in my home. Give them as much natural light as you can along with the grow light. Water thoroughly once a week in spring and summer and cut back a little in the fall and winter. I have grown several with seeds from fruit that I bought at the grocery.
A word of caution, they probably won't bloom unless the plants can be outside some in the spring. not direct sun all day but some early morning sun would certainly help.
They are beautiful and I pick a few leaves and let them simmer in a pan. Lovely fragrance!
Dream big or not at all. Have one shipped to you. Place a fluorescent light near the window. The tree will look cool and it will live.
I live in Florida and I've tried potted citrus before with no luck. The problem is that in addition to bright light citrus trees need humidity that the inside of an apartment or house can't always provide. My suggestion would be to try growing Kumquat or Calomandin trees because these adapt the best to an indoor environment. And yes everything you have heard about Citrus blossoms is true. I now have 11 full size trees in my backyard and the smell in spring is just heavenly. Would be well worth it for you to try growing them.
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