How to Grow Citron
Citrus medica
Citron is a frost-tender citrus grown primarily for its thick, fragrant rind rather than its flesh. In cool climates, grow in a large pot and overwinter indoors in a bright, frost-free spot. Provide full sun, free-draining soil or compost, and regular feeding during the growing season. Water consistently but never waterlog. The large yellow fruits are harvested in autumn and winter.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Feed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early autumn) with a citrus-specific fertiliser or a balanced NPK with added trace elements. Do not feed in winter.
Watch For
- Scale insects
- Spider mites
- Citrus leaf miner
- Root rot
Pet Safety
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun; at least 6-8 hours daily
Citron requires full sun for good growth and fruiting. When grown indoors in winter, place in the brightest available position or supplement with grow lights.
Watering
Regular; keep evenly moist but never waterlogged
Water consistently during the growing season — allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter. Avoid waterlogging, which causes root rot.
Fertilizing
Citrus feed every 4-6 weeks in growing season
Apply a citrus-specific fertiliser or a balanced NPK with trace elements every 4-6 weeks from spring to early autumn. Do not feed in winter when growth slows.
Pruning
Light shaping in spring after frost risk
Prune lightly in spring to remove dead, crossing, or congested branches. Maintain an open canopy for light and airflow. Avoid heavy pruning which reduces fruiting.
Spacing
3 m apart outdoors; or in a 40-60 L pot
In the ground, space 3 m apart. In containers, use a 40-60 litre pot with free-draining citrus compost and repot every 2-3 years.
Support
No support needed; pot may need staking outdoors
Citrons are self-supporting shrubs. Potted plants in exposed positions may benefit from a temporary stake in high winds.
Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 300 cm |
| Row spacing | 350 cm |
| Mature height | 300 cm |
| Mature spread | 250 cm |
