Citrus Growing Guide

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Thinking about cultivating citrus? Their glossy evergreen leaves and fragrant blossoms are a beautiful addition in the garden or as part of a collection of potted plants on the patio. And the fruit! Citrus is delicious, healthful, and a delightful ornament in the winter landscape. Aaron Dillon of Fours Winds Growers, California’s premier producer of citrus plants, offers  expert advice for home gardeners.

'Fukushu' kumquat. Photo: courtesy of Four Winds Growers

Find a hot spot

Citrus plants need heat in order to develop sweet tasting fruit; so finding a warm, sunny location is crucial. My great grandfather [Floyd Dillon, Four Winds founder] always said to place a citrus tree where the cat takes its nap. Light and heat reflected off the southern side of a house, a fence, or other structure can really make a big difference. Where getting enough heat to ripen sweet fruit remains a problem, gardeners should focus on growing lemons and limes as the tart fruits do not require warm temperatures to dev...