Australian Finger Lime

Australian Finger Limes need to be watered moderately throughout the growing season to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Water the plant once every 3-4 days, or when the top 1-2″ of soil becomes dry. In the winter months, the plants need less water; water them only when the soil is completely dry.

Australian Finger Limes prefer full to partial sun and thrive best outdoors. The plants need 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day and should be protected from strong winds. Grown indoors, they should be placed where they can receive bright, indirect sunlight for at least 8 hours a day.

Australian Finger Limes prefer temperatures between 70°F (21°C) and 85°F (29°C) in the day, and between 65°F (18°C) and 55°F (13°C) at night. During winter, the plant prefers temperatures that do not fall below 50°F (10°C).

Australian Finger Limes need a medium level of humidity to thrive, which can be easily maintained by misting. Mist the plant with lukewarm water once every day in order to increase moisture and reduce stress. It is also recommended to place a humidifier nearby, especially in dry locations.

Australian Finger Limes prefer soils that are light and well-draining. A container mix of 1/2 potting soil, 1/4 perlite, and 1/4 sand is recommended for best results. The potting mix should also be slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.5-7.0.

Australian Finger Limes need to be fertilized once every one to two months during the growing season. Use a balanced, 10-10-10 fertilizer or a citrus fertilizer, and water generously after application. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizing product as amounts and frequency may vary.

Australian Finger Limes are relatively pest free, but they may be attacked by mealybugs and scale insects. To get rid of the pests, mix a Neem oil solution (3-4 tablespoons of neem oil per gallon of water) and spray the entire plant. Make sure to cover the top and bottom of all the leaves, stems, and the soil. Additionally, you can introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs to eat the pests. Be sure to repeat the Neem oil treatment every 10-14 days until the pests are gone.

Australian Finger Limes should be repotted only when the plants have outgrown their containers. It is recommended to repot the plant in early spring, when the soil is warm and the risk of frost has passed. Replace the soil with a slightly larger pot and use a well-draining, sandy potting mix.

Australian Finger Limes should be pruned during early spring or late winter when the plants are dormant. Remove any dead, dying, or damaged branches, and also cut back any long branches growing beyond the desired size of the plant. Be sure to use clean, sterilized pruning shears to avoid the spread of disease.

Australian Finger Limes benefit from mulching, which helps to keep moisture and nutrients in the soil and reduces weeds and pests. Use a thin layer of organic mulch such as wood chips, straw, or shredded bark to the soil around the plant.

Australian Finger Limes can be propagated from both cuttings and seed. Cuttings should be taken from a healthy, mature plant and allowed to dry out in a warm, sunny location before being planted in a pot of well-draining soil. Alternatively, the seeds can be planted directly into a pot of soil and kept warm and moist until they sprout.

Australian Finger Limes may need a support structure such as stakes or trellises. This will help to keep the plant upright and also allow it to bear more fruit. Ensure that the stakes or trellises are securely placed into the pot.

Australian Finger Limes need to be dormant during the winter months, meaning the temperatures should not fall below 50°F (10°C). During this time, the plants should not be watered as frequently and should be moved to a location with bright, indirect sunlight.

Australian Finger Limes are not toxic to cats or dogs, so they can be kept in areas where pets are present.