Can I grow Key Lime Trees (Mexican Limes) in the San Diego area?

Question

Do they grow here ok? What do I need to know to have a steady supply of Mexican Limes at my house?

Answer 1

Absolutely! I live in San Diego area and they grow very well here. Bears Limes also grow well (they are a standard size lime)

Answer 2

Two types grow best in Southern California's coastal areas: Bearss and Mexican

The Bearss variety will grow from 15-20 ft. high unless pruned, about half of that on dwarf root stock. Fruit is green for a long time, then turns yellow-green when ripe. It's best to let it ripen for full flavor and juiciness. Limes may be as large as a standard lemon when mature. Fruit is seedless and the tree bears well in winter to early spring. Some fruit will be on the tree year round, which should provide you with the "steady supply" you desire.

The Mexican lime is the traditional lime of the bartender. In my opinion, it is not nearly as flavorful as the Bearss and it has seeds. But, it is the lime of choice for "key lime" recipes. The rind is thinner than the Bearss, as well. This tree begins growth similar to the Bearss, but remains more open, growing 12 -15 ft. when mature.

Both can be grown in containers on dwarf root stock, but the Mexican lime seems to do a little better in that planting mode. Both can also be pruned to keep a better shape, but the Bearss will have a more naturally rounded shape when fully grown.

Coastal San Diego and interior valleys that don't get heavy frosts would be perfect climate for your lime tree. Remember, don't overwater citrus and feed no more than twice a year to avoid overgrowth of folliage and less fruit set. Insects are seldom a problem, but mealy bugs and powdery black mold might occur. Spray heavily with insecticidal soap solution followed by a thorough rinse of clean water to avoid leaf burn.

Answer 3

The names ,Key Lime and Mexican Key Lime (or in basic terms undeniable Mexican Lime) in many circumstances consult from an analogous tree. it particularly is botanical call is Citrus aurantifolia. the top of a tree isn't an precise thank you to decide its age for the reason that improve relies upon on many variable aspects. in many circumstances besides the undeniable fact that, citrus approximately 2 feet tall could be around 2 years previous, assuming commonly used growing to be situations. Citrus in many circumstances won't fruit till it extremely is 3 to 5 years previous. Limes,in specific, tend to be very fussy, so yours could variety.

Answer 4

I agree with Dan L. Key Lime does well in frost-free regions like the Southern California coast. Some fruit year-round, but most is borne in the Winter.

Answer 5

probably