Guide to Growing Citrus aurantifolia (Key Lime / Philippine Lime / Dayap / Calamansi)
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.