Citrus Types: Indoor mini lime tree.

[3WE]

Hey, what are some standard reccomendations on knowing when a lime is ripe and ready to pick?

Grown a few things over the years, but never citrus. The tree is 2-feet tall, the lime is looking good, and ready to make a margarita

Also, any "special" tips for managing these trees other than normal house plant care?

Thanks!

 

[Wombat]

I have a Tahitian/Persian/Bearss lime tree and I find the shade of green tends to be a tiny bit lighter when they are perfect. The fruit will yellow eventually, but look for the ones which have more of a ''lime colour'' rather than a deep green. Also, the skins will be more supple. The colour difference is the first sign that they are finished their growth and it becomes quite obvious after you first notice it.
Another way you can tell when citrus are ripe and ready to harvest if you gently grip the fruit and give it a bit of a twist. If it comes away easily from the tree then it is ripe, if it 'clings', it needs a bit longer before its ready. One last thing to remember is never let the lime turn completely yellow as the flavour changes and not for the better.
Lastly if you're really impatient just pick one from the tree ( once it's the right size) and slice it open, if it's not juicy then it's not ready

 

[Crabbergirl]

Welcome 3WE!
Wombat gave great instructions! That was perfect

Ahhh the fresh squeeze of a lime. .....waiting on that Margarita! You must post a picture, if you can of your lime tree.

 

[3WE]

Thanks for the tips! It only has one fruit on it, so I HAVE to do this right....no second chances!

It's full size so it was tempting to pick, but yep for now, dark green and firm....

Will watch for the color change and tug on it as one does for just about any other kind of fruit.