Citrus x paradisi

Description: Citrus are relatively easy plants to grow if simple rules are followed. Once followed they reward you with strongly scented flowers and of course – fruit! Grapefruit form large shrub / small trees with large dark, shiny leaves. Strongly fragrant white flowers are freely produced from Spring to Summer followed by fruit.

Climate / Position: During summer stand Grapefruit plants outside in a sheltered spot, gradually moving the plant into full sun. When the weather cools in the late autumn bring the plants in to an unheated well ventilated conservatory or greenhouse.

Height / Spread: Height 2-3m. Spread 1.5-2m. Height and spread is restricted by the size of container they are grown in.

Soil Requirements:Well drained potting compost. Refresh soil every 3 years or so.

Pruning: Cut the canopy back by a third each year and remove any damaged or dead stems. Thin fruit out.

Special Requirements: Water thoroughly during the growing season but do not allow to stand in water. Feed throughout the growing season with summer Citrus feed. Fruit can be thinned to improve quality as they can take up to a year to reach maturity.

Grapefruit was originally grown as an ornamental plant. First described in 1750 by Griffith Hughes who called it ‘the forbidden fruit’ of Barbados. Grapefruit is said to be one of the seven wonders of Barbados.