Citrus made easy for growers, nurseries, and distributors

Yes, Tavares limequat trees can be grown very well in containers. Many home gardeners prefer container growing because it allows for better control over the size of the tree, making it ideal for patios, balconies, and small spaces. The compact nature of the Tavares limequat makes it naturally suited for pot culture. Another benefit is the ability to move the tree during cold weather. While Tavares limequat trees are more cold-hardy than true limes, they can still be damaged by hard freezes, so containers offer flexibility to bring the tree indoors or to a protected area when temperatures drop.

Container-grown Tavares limequat trees are also very productive, often producing fruit within one to two years if grafted. With proper care, including full sun exposure and regular feeding, these trees can provide an impressive amount of fruit in a relatively small footprint. A container also makes it easier to control soil conditions, helping to prevent root rot and other soil-related issues.

Tavares limequat trees are considered moderately cold-hardy for a citrus hybrid. They can typically tolerate temperatures down to around 22°F to 25°F for short periods without serious damage. This makes them more cold-tolerant than true lime trees, like the Mexican or Key lime, but slightly less hardy than some kumquat varieties.

In areas with occasional light frosts, Tavares limequat trees can survive outdoors year-round, especially when planted in a protected location with good sunlight exposure. However, in regions where winter temperatures regularly dip below the mid-20s, it is safer to grow them in containers so they can be moved indoors or to a sheltered spot during cold spells.

Young trees are more sensitive to frost, so extra protection like frost cloth or temporary covers is recommended using a heat source like Christmas lights or under-the-canopy sprinklers. Mature trees tend to withstand brief cold snaps better, though extended freezes can still cause leaf or branch dieback. Proper care, including good nutrition and well-drained soil, can improve the tree’s overall hardiness and resilience to cold stress.

Tavares limequat trees need full sunlight to thrive and produce high-quality fruit. Ideally, they should receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. In warmer climates, they benefit from morning and early afternoon sun, with some light afternoon shade helping to prevent leaf scorch during extremely hot periods.

For container-grown trees, placing the pot in the sunniest spot available, such as a south- or west-facing location, encourages strong growth and abundant flowering. Insufficient sunlight can lead to poor fruit production, leggy growth, and weaker overall health.

Outdoors, planting in an open area with minimal shading from buildings or other trees helps maximize sun exposure. Indoors during winter months, placing the tree near a bright, south-facing window or supplementing with grow lights can help maintain vigor until it can be returned outdoors.

Yes. They are relatively easy to care for compared to many other citrus trees because of their adaptability and resilience. They tolerate a range of soil types as long as drainage is good, and they can be grown successfully in both the ground and containers.They are naturally compact, making them easier to manage and suitable for smaller spaces like patios and balconies.

Tavares limequat trees flower and fruit readily, often within a year or two when grafted, giving new growers the satisfaction of harvesting fruit relatively quickly. Their ornamental appeal, with fragrant blossoms and bright yellow fruit, adds to their appeal for home gardening. As long as beginners provide regular watering, good sunlight, and occasional fertilization, Tavares limequat trees tend to be forgiving and productive. They are a practical and enjoyable choice for anyone new to growing citrus. Consult the Ortho book All About Citrus & Subtropical Fruits for practical recommendations.

Citrus Liners are for commercial use only with a minimum order of 100. They have a root ball that is 1” diameter x 8” long. Professional nurseries plant these into 3-5 gallon pots and grow them out for sale to garden centers across the U.S.