Citrus

Choosing your citrus trees depends on your climate and available space. For cold regions, prioritize potted varieties that you can bring indoors during winter. Meyer lemon trees and mandarin trees adapt well to container growing.

In open ground, reserve this planting for areas where temperatures don't drop below -5°C. The bitter orange tree and lemon tree are the most cold-hardy. Always check the hardiness rating indicated for each variety.

Regarding exposure, all citrus trees require maximum sunlight and well-drained soil. Plan for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal fruit production.

Planting and exposure

Citrus trees require a south-facing exposure with maximum sunlight. The soil must be well-drained, slightly acidic (pH 6-7) and rich in organic matter. In open ground, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and amend with compost.

Watering and fertilizing

Watering must be regular but moderate. Allow the surface to dry between waterings. In summer, watering every 2-3 days is generally sufficient. Use a citrus-specific fertilizer rich in nitrogen in spring, then balanced in summer.

Winter protection

In regions where temperatures drop below 0°C, winter protection is crucial. Bring potted trees indoors to a conservatory or cold greenhouse (5-10°C). For specimens in open ground, use frost cloth and mulch the base.

Pruning and maintenance

Prune your citrus trees at the end of winter, before new growth resumes. Remove dead branches, suckers and thin out the tree's center. Light pruning promotes fruit production.

Harvesting and storage

Harvesting extends from November to May depending on varieties. Fruits keep for several weeks on the tree. Pick them at full maturity to fully enjoy their flavors.

1. Variétés authentiques et rustiques : Notre sélection privilégie les variétés éprouvées, naturellement résistantes et adaptées au climat français, pour une culture réussie même par les débutants.

2. Parfums envoûtants toute l'année : Feuillage persistant parfumé, floraison odorante au printemps, puis fruits colorés qui embaument votre jardin ou terrasse de leurs senteurs méditerranéennes.

3. Récoltes savoureuses et vitaminées : Dégustez vos propres agrumes, incomparablement plus savoureux que ceux du commerce. Citrons, oranges et mandarines gorgés de soleil et de vitamines.

4. Direct producteur, expertise garantie : Nos agrumes proviennent directement de pépiniéristes spécialisés qui maîtrisent parfaitement la culture et la sélection de ces arbres fruitiers exigeants.

5. Adaptés à tous les espaces : Que vous ayez un grand jardin en région douce ou une simple terrasse, nos différentes tailles et variétés s'adaptent à votre environnement et vos contraintes climatiques.

Can citrus trees be grown anywhere in France?

Citrus trees can be grown everywhere but require winter protection in most regions. Only the French Riviera and Corsica allow year-round outdoor cultivation. Elsewhere, grow them in containers to bring indoors during winter.

When do young citrus trees fruit?

A young grafted citrus tree begins producing its first fruits around 3-4 years old. Seedlings take longer, sometimes 6-8 years. Production becomes really worthwhile from 5-6 years onwards.

How do I know when to water my citrus trees?

Check substrate moisture by inserting your finger 3-4 cm deep. If the soil is dry, it's time to water. In winter, drastically reduce watering, especially if plants are in cool conditions.

Why are my citrus trees losing leaves?

Leaf drop can indicate water stress, sudden temperature change, or lack of light. This is normal during winter transition. Check watering and light exposure.

Do my citrus trees need to be pollinated?

Most citrus trees are self-fertile and don't need cross-pollination. However, a few varieties like certain grapefruits produce better results with multiple trees.

How do I treat scale insects on citrus trees?

Scale insects are common on citrus trees, especially indoors. Use a treatment based on white oil or black soap. As prevention, spray foliage regularly and monitor for first pest appearances.