Citrus are wonderfully rewarding pot plants, but they're particular: they want rich, free-draining, slightly acidic conditions and they hate sitting wet. Get the citrus compost right and a lemon or lime will crop happily on a UK patio or windowsill for years. Here's what the right mix looks like, how to feed and water them, and how to see them through winter.
By Kel Dickson, Senior Brand Marketing Manager at Gro Worm, organic, peat-free grower. Reviewed by Brian McCuskey. Updated August 2026.
What citrus plants need from their compost
Citrus have three non-negotiables. First, sharp drainage, because their roots rot fast in soggy compost, so the mix needs plenty of open, gritty structure. Second, a slightly acidic pH (around 6 to 6.5), which is why ordinary multipurpose, which sits closer to neutral, isn't quite right. Third, steady nutrition, because citrus are hungry plants that hold their fruit and leaves for a long time.
A dedicated citrus compost is blended to hit all three: free-draining, gently acidic and rich enough to keep growth strong. Ours is peat-free and enriched with worm castings, which deliver plant-available nutrients and beneficial microbes slowly and gently, exactly what a fussy citrus root system wants. It's Soil Association approved and OF&G certified organic, so your homegrown lemons stay genuinely organic.
How to feed and water citrus
Watering is where most people go wrong. Let the top few centimetres dry out before watering again, then water thoroughly and let it drain. Never leave the pot in a tray of water. Rainwater is better than hard tap water where you can manage it, as citrus prefer their compost on the acidic side.
Citrus are heavy feeders during the growing season. Feed regularly from spring through to early autumn with a suitable feed to keep leaves deep green and fruit swelling. If the leaves start yellowing, it's usually a sign they're either sitting too wet or running short of nutrients. Check the drainage first, then the feeding.
Overwintering citrus in the UK
Citrus aren't frost-hardy, so in most of the UK they need to come inside over winter, a cool, bright, frost-free spot like a porch, conservatory or unheated room is ideal. Cut right back on watering while they're resting; the compost should stay barely moist, never wet. Keep them away from radiators, which dry the air and stress the plant. Move them back outside once the risk of frost has passed in late spring.
Frequently asked questions
What compost is best for citrus?
A free-draining, slightly acidic citrus compost. Citrus roots rot in dense, wet mixes, so the compost needs open structure and a pH around 6 to 6.5. A purpose-made citrus compost saves you trying to adapt an ordinary bag.
Can I use ericaceous compost for citrus?
Not quite. Ericaceous compost is too acidic for citrus, which prefer only slightly acidic conditions rather than the low pH that rhododendrons and blueberries need. A dedicated citrus compost is pitched at the right level.
How often should I feed citrus?
Regularly through the growing season, from spring to early autumn, as citrus are hungry plants that hold their fruit for months. Ease right off in winter while the plant is resting.
Why are my citrus leaves turning yellow?
Usually either overwatering or a lack of nutrients. Check first that the pot is draining freely and isn't sitting in water, then make sure it's being fed through the growing season. Cold draughts and hard water can contribute too.
Do citrus trees need special compost?
Yes, ideally. They're fussier than most pot plants about drainage and acidity, so a citrus-specific compost gives far better results than standard multipurpose and makes healthy growth and good crops much more likely.
Set your citrus up to crop
If you're potting or repotting a lemon, lime or orange this year, our peat-free citrus compost is worm-cast enriched, free-draining and Soil Association approved, the right foundation for healthy leaves and a proper crop.
