Even in small spaces, growing fruit trees in pots indoors may provide fresh fruit year-round. Easy guide in seven steps:
Select dwarf or small fruit trees for indoor cultivation. Dwarf lemon, lime, orange, apple, fig, and peach or cherry trees are popular.
1. Choose a Fruit Tree
Choose large, drainable containers to avoid waterlogging. The pots should be 10-15 gallons to allow fruit tree roots. Terracotta or plastic containers are good for indoor gardening.
2. Select a Container
Use a well-draining fruit tree potting mix or make your own with equal parts potting soil, perlite, and compost. Garden soil may compress in containers and inhibit root growth.
3. Prepare the Potting Mix
The root ball should be level with the soil when planting the fruit tree in the centre of the container. Pat the tree base's soil gently and water it.
4. Planting the Fruit Tree
Place the fruit tree in a sunny spot with 6-8 hours of direct sunshine every day. South-facing windows let in lots of light. Add grow lights if natural light is insufficient.
5. Provide Adequate Light
Water the fruit tree periodically, letting the top inch dry between waterings. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. A balanced fruit tree fertiliser should be applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
6. Watering and Feeding
Prune the fruit tree regularly to shape it, encourage ventilation, and remove dead or diseased branches. Check for aphids, scale insects, and spider mites on the tree and treat them immediately.