How to Grow Finger Lime

Updated June 2026

A warm-season fruit for the home garden across the warmer US.

Finger Lime is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Finger Lime in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the finger lime page for exact timing.

Varieties

Australian Finger Lime, Caviar-like citrus pearls (citrus nurseries)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 9.8 ft between plants.
Sowing: sow about 12 in deep.
Water: roughly 2.6 gal per plant every 3 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Citrus gall wasp and Stink bug. In humid regions, Melanose and Citrus canker can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Finger Lime is usually ready to harvest within roughly 36 months once established. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant finger lime where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

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