# A Deep Dive Into Citrus Containers

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/beyond-the-garden-basics-5638242/a-deep-dive-into-citrus-containers
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/beyond-the-garden-basics-5638242/a-deep-dive-into-citrus-containers.md
Podcast: [Beyond the Garden Basics](https://stenobird.com/podcast/beyond-the-garden-basics-5638242)
Published: 2026-05-29T13:26:00+00:00
Episode link: https://gardenbasics.substack.com/p/a-deep-dive-into-citrus-containers
Audio file: https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/199503150/19a690d23e919f200eba93d3eb5eb25a.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/beyond-the-garden-basics-5638242/episodes/a-deep-dive-into-citrus-containers
Duration seconds: 2932

## Resource

Garden book author and citrus expert Lance Walheim, is a big proponent of growing citrus trees in containers. We discuss his techniques in today’s podcast, along with shameless plugs for his new book, “ Citrus: A Gardeners’ & Fruit Lovers’ Guide .” For those of you in a hurry, here are some of the important points we touch on in the podcast: Choose compact citrus varieties for containers — Meyer lemon, kumquat, calamondin, and Bearss limes are ideal; avoid vigorous types like Lisbon lemon or grapefruit, which will quickly outgrow most pots. Upgrade container size gradually When repotting, go up only one size at a time (e.g., sleeve → 10-gallon → 15-gallon → half barrel). Transplanting immediately from the nursery pot to an oversized container can hold excess moisture around the roots and can cause rot. Prioritize drainage above everything else Check that your container has multiple drain holes (at least 4–5 for a half barrel, ½-inch diameter or larger), and drill additional side holes if needed. Raise your container off the ground Set pots on bricks, boards, or a furniture dolly to keep drain holes clear, prevent roots escaping into the native soil, and allow the bottom of the pot to dry properly. If setting pots in catch dishes, don’t let them hold standing water. Use quality commercial potting mix, not backyard soil Garden soil may compact easily, drain poorly, and can introduce pathogens. Consider amending potting mix with perlite, builder’s sand, or pumice for improved aeration, keeping in mind this will cause it to dry out faster. Avoid dark-colored pots in hot climates Black plastic containers in full sun can heat soil to 120–130°F on warm days, killing roots. Use fabric pots, light-colored containers, or nest a dark pot inside a larger one filled with mulch for…

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## Transcript

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