How to Prune Indoor Citrus Trees

Overview

If you have a bit of space and a sunny window, it's possible to grow a citrus tree indoors. Although the citrus tree may never bear fruit, the tree's thick, glossy leaves still make it a lovely indoor plant. And if you are lucky and your citrus tree blooms, your house will be filled with an unforgettably sweet aroma. Larger citrus trees will require regular pruning to keep them shapely while dwarf varieties will only need an occasional trim.

Step 1

Prune the citrus trees to a pleasing, natural shape. Clip off branches that are crossing over one another or growing inward. This will expose the center of the tree to adequate air and light.

Step 2

Remove any dead branches or thin, weak branches that will sap energy from the plant. Cut the branches as close to the trunk as possible using a vertical cut. Don't be afraid to remove branches that detract from the shape of the tree, and leave a few sturdy branches that grow out from the center.

Step 3

Maintain the citrus tree as needed by clipping the tips of new growth that are too long, and detracting from the shape of the tree. Giving the tree an occasional light pruning will mean less drastic pruning later.