Citrus made easy for growers, nurseries, and distributors

You will need a pot that holds at least 15 to 20 gallons of soil, which typically means a container about 18 to 24 inches in both diameter and depth. This size allows enough space for the roots to develop properly and supports healthy growth and fruit production.

If your tree is still young, around one to two years old, you can start with a slightly smaller pot, around 10 to 15 gallons. However, as the tree matures, you should transplant it into a larger container — ideally around 25 to 30 gallons — to ensure it has ample room to grow and remain productive.

The material of the pot also matters. Plastic pots are lightweight and help retain moisture, while clay or terracotta pots offer better breathability but may dry out more quickly. Wooden containers or half-barrels are another good option and provide natural insulation for the roots. No matter which material you choose, the pot must have adequate drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating around the roots.

Use a well-draining citrus-specific potting mix to encourage healthy root development. Place the pot in a sunny location that receives at least ten hours of direct sunlight per day. To keep a dwarf Star Ruby grapefruit tree thriving, be sure to water regularly and feed it with a balanced citrus fertilizer during the growing season.

When grown in a pot, a Star Ruby grapefruit tree will typically reach a height of 6 to 10 feet, depending on the size of the container, growing conditions, and how often it is pruned. The container restricts root growth, which naturally limits the overall size of the tree compared to one planted in the ground.

With regular pruning and proper care, you can keep the tree at the lower end of that range, around 6 to 8 feet tall, making it easier to manage and harvest. Despite the smaller size, the tree will still produce full-sized fruit with the same deep red color and sweet-tart flavor that Star Ruby grapefruit are known for.

Irrigation requirements would not be that different than a standard navel orange. Star Rubies are sensitive to excessive heat and would need to be irrigated for cooling when the temperatures exceed 110℉.

A finished tree from TreeSource is fully rooted in the pot and ready for transplanting either in a commercial orchard or as shifting stock for wholesale nurseries. A member of the public can buy from TreeSource if a Star Ruby tree appears on the Availability list.

There is an order minimum of 100 per variety unless trees are shown on the Availability list. Pricing varies, so call Daniel Cervantes at 559-592-2304 for more information.