Finger Lime – Caviar Lime 20lt

Finger lime trees (Citrus australasica) are native to Australia and are valued for their unique fruit, often referred to as “lime caviar” due to the small, bead-like vesicles that burst with tangy flavour. Growing finger lime trees in South Africa is possible with some considerations.

Climate and Soil Requirements

Climate: Finger lime trees thrive in subtropical and tropical climates. They prefer warm, humid conditions but can tolerate a range of temperatures. In South Africa, areas with mild winters and hot summers, such as KwaZulu-Natal, parts of the Eastern Cape, and the coastal regions, are suitable.
Frost Sensitivity: Finger limes are sensitive to frost. If you live in an area prone to frost, consider growing the tree in a pot so it can be moved indoors or provide frost protection during cold months.
Soil: These trees prefer well-draining soil. A sandy loam or loamy soil with good organic content is ideal. Ensure the soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral (around 6.0 to 7.0).

Planting and Care

Planting:
Choose a sunny spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball.
Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
Backfill with soil, water thoroughly, and mulch around the base to retain moisture.
Watering: Finger lime trees need regular watering, especially during the establishment phase. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter.

Fertilising: Feed the tree with a balanced citrus fertiliser during the growing season (spring to autumn).

Pruning: Prune finger lime trees to maintain shape and remove any dead or diseased wood. Pruning also helps increase air circulation and sunlight penetration.

Harvesting

Fruit Maturity: Finger limes typically produce fruit in 2-3 years if grown from grafted plants. The fruit matures in late summer to autumn.
Harvesting: Gently twist or cut the fruit from the tree when they reach their full size and colour. The skin should be firm but give slightly under pressure.

Growing in Pots

If you have limited space or live in an area with unsuitable climate conditions, growing finger limes in pots is a viable option. Use a large pot with good drainage holes and high-quality potting mix. Ensure the tree gets adequate sunlight and is protected from extreme weather.