The Canarian climate, although not always ideal for the extensive cultivation of citrus fruits, does allow these fruit trees to be used as outdoor plants. Moderate temperatures and the lack of intense seasonal changes allow citrus fruits to be produced throughout the year, although humidity also makes them more prone to pests.
If you have a terrace and want to grow citrus fruits, you can do so by taking into account certain specific care.
Citrus fruits that you can grow on the terrace
Some varieties of tropical citrus fruits are more recommended for pot cultivation in the Canary Islands, either because they adapt better to the climate or because their characteristics make them ideal for small orchards or terraces. Many of them are relatively unknown and very interesting to grow at home.
- Canary oranges
The Canary orange tree is a variety that, thanks to the climate of the islands, can bear fruit practically throughout the year. Although it is not a very widespread crop, it is successfully planted in areas such as La Palma, Tenerife and Gran Canaria, where the climate is more favorable for its growth.
To grow oranges at home, it is important to guarantee a well-drained soil and direct sun exposure for at least six hours a day, so its choice depends on the orientation of the terrace.
- Kumquat
The kumquat is a small and very decorative citrus fruit native to China that adapts well to pots, making it ideal for growing on terraces. This fruit has a sweet skin and a somewhat acidic pulp, which gives it a particular flavor.
Like other species, it needs good exposure to the sun and regular watering, but it tolerates periods of drought well, so it does not require excessive maintenance.
- Buddha's Hand
The Buddha's Hand is a tropical citrus fruit known for its finger-shaped fruits. Although it is not consumed in the same way as other citrus fruits, its fragrance and its use in cooking or to aromatize environments make it very popular.
These trees need good drainage and moderate watering, and are quite resistant to the climate of the islands. On a terrace, they can be some ornamental outdoor plants, in addition to being useful for perfuming the home naturally.
- Citrus caviar
Citrus caviar, also known as finger lime, is an exotic citrus fruit originating from the tropical areas of Australia, little known in our country. Its name is due to the fact that its fruits, when opened, reveal tiny translucent spheres that resemble caviar pearls. It is one of the most demanded citrus fruits in haute cuisine for its peculiar flavor and texture.
Recommendations for growing citrus fruits as outdoor plants
So that citrus fruits can withstand without problems on your terrace, you must take into account some basic recommendations. Using a sufficiently large pot to allow the development of the roots, using fertilizers rich in potassium and nitrogen, and monitoring possible pests applying preventive treatments when necessary are some of the most important.
With these care and recommendations, you can enjoy growing citrus fruits on your terrace as if they were outdoor plants and savor fresh and aromatic fruits produced at home.
