The Australian finger lime (Citrus Australia) is a unique and highly sought-after citrus variety native to the rainforests of Queensland and New South Wales. With its caviar-like pulp and tangy flavour, it has become a gourmet ingredient in modern cuisine. If you’re looking to grow your own finger lime tree, this guide will walk you through every step, ensuring your tree thrives in your garden.
Why Grow a Finger Lime Tree?
Finger limes are not just an exotic addition to your backyard; they also offer multiple benefits:
- They are drought-tolerant and suitable for Australian climates.
- Their fruit is packed with antioxidants and vitamin C.
- They require minimal maintenance once established.
- Their thorny branches make them a great natural hedge for privacy.
- They attract beneficial pollinators like bees, helping your garden ecosystem thrive.
- The fruit can be used in a variety of dishes, including seafood, desserts, and cocktails.
If you’re interested in planting a finger lime tree, read on for a step-by-step guide to growing a healthy and productive tree.
Thank You for purchasing finger limes
Remove plant from the box, remove plastic wrapping and give your plant a good watering (or soaking in season). It is highly recommended that you let your tree acclimatise to your condition and recovery from journey. I’ll suggest that you keep plant in sheltered spot for at least a two week before planting permanent spot in your garden; if you are planting in the pot you can do so in any time keeping transplanted plant in sheltered spot for a while.
Step 1: Planting in the soil
Finger lime prefers well drain light type of soil. pH 6-7.5 When preparing soil before planting avoid use of animal manure and commercial organic fertiliser (blood & bone, fish fert. dynamic lif, worm castings… ), as it can cause root burn, which will seriously set back your tree leave them prone to root disease. For cooler climate and flat land raised bad should be formed to allow good derange during wet times. Dig a hole 2 to 3 times the size of the pot with the tree you are about to plant if you are not sure in which type of soil you have and if will be suited for finger limes, best will be to remove all soil and fill the whole with recommended potting mix with recommended fertiliser. Do not disturb the roots, slit both sides of the bag before carefully lowering the tree into the planting hole, then slip the bag out from underneath. Ensure the soil/potting mix level of the plant is at the same level or slightly higher, to allow for sinkage, then the natural level of the soil prior to excavation. Water well with solution of seaweed if available.
Step 2: Planting in the pots
Use premium top grade well drain potting mix ( for Australia, Osmocote premium potting mix orange bag in Bunning this potting mix has small amount of fertiliser so it is save to use for finger limes . You should incorporate some slow releasing fertiliser ( Osmocote slow release citrus fertiliser form Bunning ) into the potting mixture. Water the pot with plant before you transfer, don’t brake soil around the roots, water with soil conditioner if you can, seaweeds (season Bunning’s) or other planting conditioner.
Step 3: Pruning
finger lime is not pruned in the same manner as other citrus trees. Pruning is primarily aimed at keeping the plant neatly shaped. Foliage can be allowed to remain all the way down the trunk although, with grafted trees, it is usual to prune away the bottom skirt of foliage.
Step 4: Flowering and Fruiting
Tree can start flowering in the first year but rarely produce fruit, you should remove fruit when is small in first two years otherwise it will slow growth significantly. It will take 3-4 years for plants to have a regular fruiting. Lifespan of finger lime is +30 years. Plant should be planted on half day sunny to full sun position to be able to set fruit.
Step 5: Fertilise
Spring and Summer with slow release citrus fertiliser including trace elements. Folio feed is recommended. Always use slow realise fertiliser like osmocote slow release citrus fertiliser from Bunnings, Finger lime will use approximately 20% fert. then normal citrus trees.
Step 6: Potential pests problems
Finger lime suffer from scale and sooty mould, and the leaves are chewed by the usual caterpillar pests, otherwise they are very resilient. you can use white oil or Neem oil in May to control scales. If is any caterpillars best is to remove them, avoid using strong insecticide if not necessary.
Step 7: Watering
Finger lime like more dry soil condition, I would suggest that you water pots like this: first water the pot very well make sure is soaked, but before you water next time pot need to be light, almost dry, in the time when pot is low on water most of pathogens in the soil will die, prolong dampness of the potting medium will damage the roots. Don’t use drip tray.
Enjoy growing finger limes.
Bonus Tips for a Thriving Finger Lime Tree
- Plant multiple finger lime tree varieties to extend your harvest season.
- use drip irrigation when possible for economical water use
- Keep an eye on local wildlife—birds love nesting in finger limes tree canopy
- Companion plant with other citrus trees for a healthier garden ecosystem.
- Ensure adequate spacing between trees to prevent overcrowding and competition for nutrients and light Finger limes will almost never suffer from the gall wasp infestation
Conclusion
Planting a finger lime tree in your garden is a rewarding experience, offering fresh and delicious citrus caviar right at home. By choosing the right location, preparing the soil, and following proper care techniques, you can enjoy a healthy and productive tree for years to come.
Whether you’re growing finger limes for personal use or as part of a sustainable garden, these native Australian trees are an excellent addition to any backyard. So why wait? Start growing your own finger lime tree today!
