If you live in the north, chances are very good that you are not able to grow citrus trees outdoors.  We just don’t have the climate for them, but that doesn’t mean you have to completely rule out growing your own citrus fruit.

Many plant companies have dwarf citrus trees that can – believe it or not – grow and bear fruit while living in pots.  This is great news for those who are trying to eat only local food but find themselves missing that sharp citrus taste.

The Meyer lemon tree is one example.  It will produce fruit if given the right conditions, such as full sun and adequate water.  When kept in a container, you can put these trees outdoors during warmer weather.  The Meyer tree, for example, will grow best in temperatures between 55 and 70 degrees, but will go dormant at temperatures below 55 degrees.  For many northern climes, that allows you to keep the tree outside from late spring to very early fall.

Once it is too cold outdoors, your tree can come inside for the winter, providing you with beautiful leafy greens until the next growing season.

Because indoor trees need lots of light, you may need to supplement their natural light with artificial lights.  They will need 10-12 hours of light through the winter, and in northern climates that just isn’t possible without artificial light.

Potted citrus trees are a great way to enjoy growing your own exotic fruits in northern climates, and they can provide you with beautiful foliage indoors throughout the winter.