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Hello @sau1
To prepare a pot for your dwarf lime, you'll want to start with a good drainage layer, as you've noted. A 3-4 cm layer of coarse gravel or small stones is a great choice, but if you're looking for a more budget-friendly alternative to landscape fabric for the next layer, you have a few options. Old hessian sacks, synthetic shade cloth, or even a few layers of leftover weed matting can work well, as long as they allow water to drain while keeping the soil in place. Some gardeners even repurpose old cotton or linen fabric, like a worn-out pillowcase or an old tea towel, which can break down slowly over time but still serve the purpose.
Once the fabric layer is installed, a high-quality citrus potting mix is essential, as it provides the right balance of drainage and nutrients. Just make sure the pot is large enough, ideally at least 40-50 cm wide and deep, to support the long-term growth of your lime tree. When selecting a potting mix for your dwarf lime tree, it's essential to choose one that offers excellent drainage, proper aeration, and balanced nutrients tailored for citrus plants. A highly recommended option is the Scotts Osmocote Citrus & Fruit Premium Potting Mix. This mix includes a controlled-release fertilizer that feeds your plant for up to six months, along with added wetting agents and water crystals to maintain consistent moisture levels
If you prefer to create your own mix, a DIY blend consisting of 60% premium potting mix, 20% composted organic matter, 10% perlite, and 10% coarse river sand can be effective. This combination ensures good drainage while retaining necessary moisture and nutrients. Adjusting the pH to a slightly acidic range of 6.0–6.5 using dolomite lime can further enhance nutrient uptake for your lime tree.
Here is a handy guide that will help: How To Grow A Lime Tree
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
Hello @sau1
That pot size should work nicely, I propose checking the root spread after one year to make sure that there is still room in the pot to grow. If you notice that the roots have reached the edge of the walls of the pot and are turning in its best to re-pot it to the next size up.
If you need further assistance, please let me know.
Eric
Hi @sau1,
The wonderful @Noelle in her comprehensive guide How to pot a plant says: "Don’t think that by choosing a pot several sizes larger you will be doing the plant a favour - you won't! Excess potting mix beyond the roots may turn sour, becoming smelly and also possibly damaging developing root tips."
Jason
