How to Care for a Finger Lime Tree

Overview

The finger lime tree is a species of lime that is native to Australia. The fruit of a finger lime tree is long and slender, like small cucumbers or zucchini. Finger limes are a popular ingredient in Asian cooking. The plant grows as a thorny shrub that can reach up to 8 feet tall. It grows wild in the sub-tropical zones of eastern Australia. Care of finger lime trees is similar to care of other citrus plants.

Step 1

Plant a finger lime tree in the ground in tropical and subtropical temperate zones (USDA Zones 10 and 11). For cooler temperate zones, select a container for growing a finger lime tree.

Step 2

Mix a soil for potted finger lime trees that is equal parts sand, peat and bark.

Step 3

Select a site for your finger lime tree that receives full sun. Soil should be well-drained.

Step 4

Bring a potted finger lime tree indoors during cooler weather.

Step 5

Water your tree once a week if it is indoors in a container by filling the container to the rim with water, and then allowing water to drain. Water outdoor trees weekly in periods when they do not receive natural rain. The soil surface should dry out in between watering. If soil does not dry, wait longer in between watering.

Step 6

Remove any diseased or dead growth. Otherwise, refrain from pruning your tree. Citrus trees such as the finger lime have dense foliage in a naturally pleasing shape.

Step 7

Fertilize with high-nitrogen liquid fertilizer such as 3-1-1 once monthly. Select a liquid fertilizer than can be added to the tree's water.