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Citrofortunella x microcarpa australasica

Citrofortunella x microcarpa ‘Australasica,’ commonly known as Finger Lime, is a unique citrus plant native to Australia. It is prized for its finger-shaped fruits that contain small, bead-like juice vesicles with a tart, citrusy flavor. Here’s how to grow and care for Citrofortunella x microcarpa ‘Australasica’:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Citrofortunella x microcarpa ‘Australasica’ plant or seeds
• Suitable pot with drainage holes (for indoor cultivation) or a garden area with well-draining soil (for outdoor growth)
• Well-draining potting mix (for indoor cultivation) or garden soil (for outdoor growth)
• Fertilizer for citrus or balanced citrus fertilizer
• Watering can
• Pruning shears (for maintenance)
• Optional: support stake (for tree form)

Steps for Indoor Growth:

1. Light: Place your Citrofortunella x microcarpa ‘Australasica’ in a location with plenty of direct sunlight. A south or west-facing window is ideal. These plants thrive in full sun.

2. Temperature: Maintain a temperature between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) indoors. They can tolerate lower temperatures but should be protected from frost.

3. Pot Selection: Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent water logging . Finger Lime plants prefer to be slightly root-bound, so select a pot that allows for some root growth.

4. Potting Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix suitable for citrus plants or create a mix with peat, perlite, and sand to ensure proper drainage and prevent overwatering.

5. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water your Finger Lime plant when the top inch of the soil feels slightly dry. Water thoroughly and empty the saucer beneath the pot after watering.

6. Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced liquid citrus fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early autumn). Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid over-fertilization.

7. Pruning and Maintenance: Prune your Citrofortunella x microcarpa ‘Australasica’ as needed to maintain its shape and remove dead or overgrown branches.

Steps for Outdoor Growth (in suitable climates):

1. Location: Plant your Citrofortunella x microcarpa ‘Australasica’ in a sunny, well-drained area in your garden. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

2. Planting: If you have a young plant, dig a hole and plant it at the same depth as it was in the nursery container. Water thoroughly after planting.

3. Soil: Ensure the soil is rich, fertile, and well-draining. Amending the soil with organic matter can help improve its fertility.

4. Watering: Water the outdoor plant regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

5. Pruning and Maintenance: Prune and shape your outdoor Citrofortunella ‘Australasica’ as needed to maintain its form and remove dead or overgrown branches.

Finger Lime (Citrofortunella x microcarpa ‘Australasica’) produces unique finger-shaped fruits filled with citrusy juice vesicles that are used in culinary dishes. With proper care and attention to its specific needs, your Finger Lime plant will thrive and provide you with its distinctive and tangy fruits.