Dwarf citrus trees, including Meyer lemon, can be successfully grown in containers here in Northeast Ohio. Their fragrant blooms, evergreen foliage, and ability to produce fruit despite a shortened growing season make them a rewarding plant to grow indoors and out.
View Citrus Gardening GuideCitrus Tree Care
growing citrus
quick tips
Light | Citrus require 6 or more hours of direct sunlight (full sun) to bloom well. Indoors, a south or west facing window with bright direct light is best to encourage blooming.
Watering | Keep soil evenly moist, but not soggy, allowing the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between waterings. Citrus grown outdoors in full sun may need daily watering in the heat of summer.
Humidity | Citrus are tropical plants that enjoy their humidity. While indoors, occasional spray misting or the use of a humidity tray can help maintain a healthy growing environment.
transitioning tropical plants
indoors & out
Dwarf Meyer Lemon trees can be grown outdoors in full sun from late spring through early fall in Northeast Ohio. After they’ve experienced 1-2 light fall frosts, bring them back indoors and place them in a bright room for winter. In early spring, slowly transition the plant outdoors over the course of 7-14 days, starting under a tree in a shady, protected area, then gradually moving out into more direct sunlight.
repotting
and maintenance
Repotting | If roots are exposed on top of the soil, or growing through the bottom of the pot, it’s most likely time to repot! It’s best to repot in spring using a moistened, well-draining potting mix.
Pruning | When it comes to citrus in Northeast Ohio, very little pruning is needed. It’s best to prune citrus in late winter to reduce size or to shape growth habit. Suckers and damaged, dead, or diseased growth can be removed at any time.
Fertilizing | Feed citrus a high nitrogen, acidic fertilizer every other week from March through October, or according to package instructions.
Citrus Tree Care
For more on Citrus Tree care, view our printable Citrus Tree Care Gardening Guide.
View Citrus Gardening Guide