When is it safe to take my citrus tree outdoors after winter?

Answer

Citrus is not tolerant of the considerable temperature swings of spring in the northeast and needs a warmer night temperature. I suggest that you wait until it is consistently in the 50’s at night before making the move outdoors and the day temps are consistently in the 60s. In the NYC area May 15 is usually okay to set out plants. Then go through an acclimation process of taking your tree in during the night and returning it to the outdoors in the daytime. Do this over a week's time and your citrus tree should be acclimated.

Continue to watch the weather forecast! If the forecast says it is going to get really cold on a given night, take them back inside or better yet, drape them with burlap or a sheet loosely to give them a little protection. This should work since the cold period will probably only be for a day or two.

Early spring is a good time to prune your plant, before they start to really become active. 

Hope this is helpful.

----------------------------

Courtesy of the NYBG Plant Information Service

Check out our guides with even more garden information

  • Last Updated May 04, 2021
  • Views 109
  • Answered By Anita Finkle

FAQ Actions

Was this helpful? 0 0

Ask a plant expert

Send us an email or use the question form below.

Submit a question

Before submitting your question, try searching our Plant and Gardening FAQ page and Help Guides. Still need help? Fill out the form below and a plant expert will answer your individual plant and gardening questions. We will respond to questions in the order we receive them.

Your Question
Your Info
Fields marked with * are required.