Persian Lime

Persian Lime is a round bright green fruit usually when sold and turns yellow when ripened. The Persian lime has a thick skin and is larger then other limes such as the key lime. The lime is also know as, Tahiti lime or Bearss lime and is sold in supermarkets as just a lime.

This Persian Lime produces very juicy fruit all year round. The plants grow to around 3x3m (10×10′) tall, and they do well in the garden or in pots. The seedless fruit is small and green when ripe, although it can be left on the tree until it turns yellow. Persian limes are easy to grow. They are reasonably frost tolerant, but in very cold areas you should wait until spring before you plant.

The Persian lime tree is medium to large, up to 15 or 20 ft (4.5-6 m), which is nearly thorn-less, with widespread drooping branches. The Persian lime is more commercial agriculture compared to other limes. As the lime is larger size, absence of seeds, hardiness, absence of thorns on the bushes, and longer fruit shelf life.

Position:

Persian Limes love sunlight and should ideally be planted out in the open in full sun.

Soil:

Persian lime like to be planted on well drained soil and elevated beads. In most parts of the world they grow in limestone and sand. Lime trees are well-adapted to soils having good internal and surface drainage. Growth on heavy clays or poorly-drained soils will cause poor growth as limes do not tolerate flooding conditions.

Persian Lime Tree

Soil Preparation:

Good soil preparation is the secret to any great lime tree. Firstly always remove any grass or weeds from the area. Then dig the soil over, breaking it up as you go. If the soil is hard and clay, add gypsum. To enrich the soil add compost or garden mix, well rotted manures, organic matter, top soil, etc. Incorporate any or a combination of these through the soil by continually digging it over to at least the depth of a spade. Water thoroughly as you turn this through the soil. You should end up with nice readily crumbling soil for planting.

Fertilizing:

If you have followed the soil preparation instructions above, it is not necessary to fertilise at the time of planting. Let the tree settle in for a couple of weeks, then start fertilising.

Uses:

Limes are an excellent source of Vitamin C and they are a great substitute for lemons. They can be used for drinks, seafood dishes, chicken, meats, desserts, cakes, biscuits and marmalade.