Though historically orangeries were conceived to grow oranges and other citrus trees in; fashionable orangeries nowadays are unlikely to display more than a bowl of imported oranges.However, it is possible to citrus trees that are of a size that can be managed in a smaller conservatory or orangery in the winter and, depending on how far North or South you live, kept outside from about May to October. Mind you, you’ll need tall and wide doors to accommodate the transfer so if you plan to grow citrus trees in your conservatory or orangery, let the designer now in advance!
David Hamer, owner of David’s Exotic Plants in Canterbury, says citrus trees have been known to survive a light fall of snow, but they are not frost resistant and below 7C (45F) they become dormant.
Navel oranges are best pruned to 8ft tall and unless taken care of can shoot up 3ft a year! Lemons grow faster than orange trees and depending on the variety can fruit throughout the year.
A 6ft orange or lemon tree will set you back £250, including delivery.
Here are some growing tips:
- Temperatures should not fall below 7C (45F). Ideal wintering conditions are a cool conservatory or slightly warmed greenhouse up to 10C – so again not suitable if you plan to have centrally heated conservatory or orangery as a living room.
- Orange and lemon trees must not be allowed to go dormant in winter as that is when they produce blossom and fruit.
- Plant in free-draining gritty, neutral soil, from spring, feed once a week, watering-in a citrus mix of nitrogen, potash, phosphates and trace elements.
- Feed more sparingly in winter, letting the soil dry between watering. Wipe off pests such as scale bugs, mealy bugs and whitefly with a soapy sponge or hose down in summer.
- Plant in a 12in pot for a 6ft tree and keep the pruned to a manageable size.
I suppose having a citrus tree is very handy if you fancy a gin and tonic and the supermarket is shut…but it does seem like a lot of effort to have a supply of fresh lemons available!
