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The Lime Fruit tree (Citrus Aurantifolia) is originally from Southeast Asia. It is a small tree, with dark green leaves and small white flowers. It produces a small, round, edible fruit which resembles a lemon, but is smaller and more fragrant. Lime fruit trees do not tolerate the cold, but there are varieties that can be grown indoors with excellent results.
Lime fruit trees are rather small, up to 15 feet in height. They tend to produce many low branches, which can sometimes give them the appearance of a bush. They have dense dark-green perennial foliage. The dark, round leaves do not fall off in winter, which makes it an attractive focal point in the winter months. Lime trees produce small, very fragrant white flowers almost continually. These flowers later turn into small, light green fruit.
Lime fruit trees are typically grown in regions that have a warm climate, in the Mediterranean in Europe and in the tropical and subtropical regions in America and Asia, for example, since they are very sensitive to the cold. It is for this reason that they can only be grown outdoors in warm climates. However, this versatile plant can also be grown indoors, in containers, and if given the right conditions will be able to flower and yield fruit. In order to achieve this, it is important to ensure its needs are fully met. Lime fruit trees need well-drained, loose soil, as well as adequate fertilizing. They will also need a significant amount of water daily, especially in the summer months. As regards to pruning, it is advisable to do it at least once a year in order to give the tree the desired shape and to do away with dead or diseased branches. As with all citrus fruits, they can be prone to diseases and pests, and correct pruning will reduce the risk of trouble.
If you decide to grow a lime fruit tree indoors, the best idea would be to provide your tree with a big container, filled with a rich, well-drained, loose mixture. Water it regularly, and get ready to enjoy the aroma of the flowers and fruit. You can take the container outside if the weather is milder during the summer, and remember to keep it well-watered at all times. Change the container if the tree has grown too much, or approximately every two years.
The lime is a very acid, edible fruit, whose taste is very similar to that of a lemon. Limes are used in the kitchen for a variety of Mediterranean and Mexican typical dishes. It is sometimes a good substitute for lemons, since they have practically the same taste. Just like lemons, they have a high content of vitamin C.
Whether you grow your lime fruit tree indoors or outdoors, the most important thing is to keep it away from the cold. Regular watering, fertilizing and pruning will ensure that you are able to enjoy the fruits of your labor, which is one of the most pleasurable aspects of gardening.
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Author Bio Box: Patricia Wainwright
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