When and How to Prune a Lime Tree
Although pruning lime trees isn’t generally required for proper care of lime trees, there are several good reasons to do so. Pruning lime trees helps improve airflow, reduce disease, strengthen limbs and makes it easier to harvest fruits. The best time to prune lime trees is early spring or late summer or anytime prior to blooming. Prune lime trees every year or two, which will help keep them from becoming too large. Always use sharp pruning shears or loppers when pruning lime trees. If you have frost damage, wait until the trees have shown new growth. Prior to pruning lime trees, pick off any remaining fruit. Prune all dead, damaged, weak or diseased branches to the base. Weak stems cannot withstand the weight of heavy fruit production. To encourage healthy ripening of fruits, prune lime trees to allow additional sunlight to pass through. Keep lime trees smaller on top and thicker at the bottom, removing middle branches to open it up. This also allows for better air circulation, which helps prevent disease.
Growing Lime Trees and Lime Tree Care
Once a lime tree is pruned, make sure to care for your tree properly. The care of lime trees is relatively easy, provided their basic requirements have been met. Citrus trees require lots of sunlight. When growing lime trees, not only should they be located in a sunny area, but also one that is protected or sheltered from wind, as lime trees are extremely sensitive to cold. Frequent watering and proper fertilization is another vital requirement in the care of lime trees. Adequate drainage is just as important too. Maintaining a healthier looking lime tree by keeping it pruned each year can go a long way with lime tree care.
