Popular Types of Citrus

When I first saw orange and lemon trees for sale in my local garden centre I tought they were a great idea and I was very keen to get one. I then saw the price, over £100 for a potted orange tree. So I thought I'd buy a Calamondin instead. Although these can't be eaten as dessert oranges, they can be used in marmalades. I thought I would buy one of these first to see how they are to care for and which condition's they do best in. I done this because the Calamondin was just £15, and worth the risk. I couldn't justify spending over £100 just for some fresh oranges!

Since buying this Calamondin I have falling in love with citrus trees, and I'm currently growing - from seed, some orange and lemon trees. I can't wait to see them growing, and it will be very exciting seeing them grow.

This article is all about the most popular types of citrus and I will provide information on seven different types.

Oranges (Citrus Sinensis): Good place to start. They come in two types, there are bitter oranges, which are better used in cooking and marmalades, and sweeter dessert oranges that are generally just used to be eaten alone. Older more established orange trees can flower and fruit all year round, provided they're kept in the correct conditions. 

Lemon (Citrus Limon): Strongly scented plant, can flower and fruit simultaneously. Lemon peel (rind) can be used in cooking and baking for cakes. The leaves and the fruit juice can also be used. 

Lemon Meyer: Relatively undiscovered by many, but is said to be a mix between orange and lemons, so has a sweeter taste than other lemons. More robust than other citrus and can handle a cooler climate.

Calamondin (Citrofortuella microcarpa): Produces small fruits, like mini oranges, as shown above. The oranges can be used to make marmalade, so it does have some use. Very decorative, the flowers have a sweet, pleasant aroma. It flowers and fruits for long periods, and all year round with the right amount of pruning, watering, and in the right place.

Limes (Citrus Aurantifolia) Require more warmth than most citrus. Limes will grow in cooler climates but they will grow slowly. Can of course be used in drinks, a good conservatory plant, but remember to keep it from direct sunlight. Keep it humid and well watered.

Kumquat (Fortunella Spp.) A small oval orange like fruit, has a soft and thin peel that is edible. can be cooked or used in fruit salads. The flesh is a bitter sharp taste, contrasting with the sweetness of the peel. Their fruit grows slowly, so they're suitable for growing in pots. 

Limequat: A yellow skinned cross between a lime and a kumquat.

I hope this information has been useful, check out my other hubs on Caring for your Citrus tree from my profile: http://hubpages.com/profile/Adamgreen