Bright Harvests in Cold Climates: Growing Citrus Trees in Pots Up North

Brenda Ortmann, Anoka County Master Gardener

There’s something magical about plucking a fresh lemon or lime from your own tree—especially when you live in a northern climate. That tempting dream is what led me (and many others) to take the plunge and bring home a citrus tree. Because our winters are harsh, growing citrus here means keeping them in pots so they can be brought indoors during colder months. In the summer, they shine as patio showstoppers. The secret to long-term success is knowing exactly how to care for them, especially once they are back inside.

To boost your chances of success, it is best to start with more forgiving citrus varieties. I recommend Meyer lemon, Calamondin orange, or a kumquat tree to begin your citrus journey. Dwarf varieties can also work well, but it’s best to begin with something proven to be easier care and build your skills from there. When it comes to pots, go just one to two inches larger than the nursery pot your tree came in. I opt for glazed ceramic containers because I’m prone to underwatering. If you’re the overwatering type, terra cotta is better for allowing moisture to escape. Citrus roots hate soggy conditions, so use a well-draining soil mix and a pot with a drainage hole. A light soil made with perlite or sand is ideal. You can also find DIY citrus soil blends online if you’re feeling adventurous.

Summer care is fairly simple. Citrus trees love sunlight—aim for at least 6–8 hours a day—and they thrive in our Minnesota humidity. Let the soil dry out between waterings, but don’t panic over a rainy stretch because with proper drainage, they can handle it. Yellow leaves can be an indication of overwatering, but also a lack of nutrition, which they need to successfully bear fruit. I fertilize three times a year: once in February (before blooming), in June (after blooming), and in October.

Once nighttime temperatures consistently dip below 50°F, it’s time to bring your citrus plant indoors. Do a thorough pest inspection, hose off the leaves (gently if fruit is present), and spray with a neem oil solution a couple of times during the first few weeks. If you find bugs mid-winter, neem or horticultural oil are safe for edible fruit trees.

The big challenges indoors are light and humidity. A south-facing window might provide enough sunlight, but indoor air is often too dry. A humidifier helps, but I go all in with a mini greenhouse and grow lights to keep my tree happy. Pebble trays and misting help a little but often aren’t enough on their own. 

Citrus fruit takes patience—often 6 to 12 months to ripen. My lime tree sets fruit from April through summer, and I don’t harvest until at least mid-winter when the limes start to turn yellow. Pick the fruit too soon, and you will be disappointed with hard, bitter fruit. 

With the right care, citrus trees can thrive in pots and bring year-round joy. And when those fragrant blossoms open in early spring, your whole home feels like it’s waking up with them.