Updated Nov. 07, 2022
Follow expert advice for growing and pruning an indoor clementine tree. Find out the benefits of growing citrus fruit and where to buy your own tree.
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“I have a 15-year-old indoor clementine tree (above) that I planted from seeds. How much bigger will it get?” asks Dianna Elder of Howard, Ohio.
You obviously have mastered the proper care for this citrus plant. Clementines sold at nurseries are usually grafted onto a dwarfing rootstock so they grow only about 6 feet tall. Grown on their own, like yours, they have the potential to reach 25 feet in height.
Check out expert tips to grow an indoor avocado tree.
Since your tree is growing in less than ideal conditions for citrus, it will take quite a few years to reach that height. Prune your clementine tree in spring to help control the growth as needed. Avoid extreme pruning as that can stimulate excessive growth, requiring even more pruning the following season.
If you live in zone 8 or colder regions, you will need to bring your tree indoors before the first frost. Keep your tree near a sunny window until the weather warms up again.
Learn how and when to fertilize citrus trees.
We found clementine trees available online at retailers like Etsy, Garden Goods Direct, Fast Growing Trees and Nature Hills Nursery. Keep in mind that these trees are young trees (not full sized) and they will continue to grow.
You can also purchase an EasyPeel Clementine tree from Fast Growing Trees. These are the sweet, easy-to-peel tiny clementines that kids love. You’ll often see these small citrus fruits sold in mesh bags at the grocery store.
The trees will produce a bountiful crop of delicious, nearly seedless fruit (clementines are usually ready to pick in November or December). And the spring blossoms will fill your home with a lovely fragrance. Another perk—these trees are resistant to diseases and insect pests, so you will not need to apply pesticides.
Note that these trees cannot be shipped to some states due to agricultural regulations.
Next, check out the top 10 dwarf fruit trees for small spaces, and learn everything you need to know about growing fruit trees indoors.
Originally Published: January 14, 2022
