Growing Key Lime

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Guide to Growing Citrus aurantifolia (Key Lime / Dayap)

Citrus aurantifolia, commonly known as Key Lime, Dayap, or Mexican Lime, is a high-value citrus crop widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions. It is known for its aromatic, tangy fruits, high vitamin C content, and culinary uses.

Ideal Growing Conditions

  • Climate: Warm, humid tropical to subtropical climate (25–35°C).
  • Elevation: Grows well at 0–1,200 meters above sea level.
  • Rainfall: Requires 1,000–2,000mm/year; needs proper drainage.
  • Sunlight: Needs full sun exposure (6–8 hours/day) for better fruiting.
  • Soil: Well-draining sandy loam or loamy soil with a pH of 5.5–6.5.

Propagation & Planting

  • Propagation:
    • Best grown from grafted seedlings (faster fruiting: 2-3 years).
    • Can also be propagated by air-layering (marcotting) or seeds (slow growth: 4-5 years).
  • Planting Distance:
    • Commercial plantations: 3m x 3m (1,100 trees per hectare).
    • Home gardening: 2m x 2m for compact growth.
  • Hole Preparation:
    • Dig 50cm x 50cm x 50cm deep.
    • Mix organic compost + garden soil before planting.
  • Best Planting Season:
    • Start in the early rainy season for better root establishment.
  • Irrigation & Watering
    • Young trees: Water 2-3 times a week to establish roots.
      Mature trees: Water weekly during dry months.
      Drip irrigation is recommended for commercial plantations.
  • Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot! Ensure well-draining soil.
  • Pruning & Canopy Management
    • Remove weak, dead, or diseased branches to promote healthy growth.
    • Light pruning after harvest helps stimulate new fruiting branches.
    • Keep trees 3-4m tall for easy harvesting.
  • Fertilization & Soil Nutrition
    • Year 1-2: Apply NPK (14-14-14) every 3 months.
    • Year 3+: Use high-potassium (K) fertilizers (e.g., 12-12-17-2) to boost fruiting.
    • Organic compost improves fruit quality.
    • Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Pest & Disease Management
    • Common Pests:
      • Aphids & Leaf Miners → Use neem oil or insecticidal soap.
      • Citrus Psyllid (carrier of citrus greening disease) → Use sticky traps & pruning.
  • Common Diseases:
    • Citrus Canker (brown spots) → Apply copper-based fungicide.
    • Root Rot (Phytophthora) → Improve drainage & avoid overwatering.
  • Flowering & Fruiting
    • First flowering 1.5 – 3 years after planting.
    • Fruits develop 3-6 months after flowering.
    • Regular pruning & proper fertilization enhance fruit yield.
  • Harvesting & Yield
    • First Harvest: 2-3 years after planting (grafted).
    • Peak Production: 5-10 years.
    • Annual Yield: 300–1,000 fruits per tree (depends on variety & care).
    • Harvest Timing: When fruits turn deep green to yellowish-green.
  • Market Potential & Profitability
    • Used in juice, culinary, cosmetics, essential oils.
    • High demand for local and export markets.
    • Can be processed into lime extract, dried lime, or flavored products.
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