Growing Bearss Limes in Phoenix

Bearss lime (also known as Tahitian lime or Persian lime) is one of the most common lime varieties grown in Arizona.  It's seedless, vigorous, and grows dark green fruit that ripen to yellow.  

I bought mine at Summerwinds Nursery and planted it in the spring of 2014. It bloomed in 2015 and had some fruit, though they all dropped. This year I finally have my first harvest. It's planted in the hottest spot of my yard (west-facing with full sun) along with grapefruit and a blood orange, so I provided some shade protection the first year. 

View fullsize

April 12, 2016

December Citrus

Before moving to Phoenix in 2008, I had no idea that Arizona had such an abundance of winter citrus.  Currently I am growing Meyer lemon (my favorite), Lisbon lemon, Ponderosa lemon, Valencia orange, Nagami kumquat, Rio Red grapefruit,  Bearss lime, and Moro blood orange. I only have room for one or two more, but on my wish list are Buddha's Hand citron, Kaffir lime, mandarin, calamondin, finger lime, or yuzu.  

View fullsize

Meyer lemon

View fullsize

Lisbon lemons

View fullsize

Valencia orange

Looking for a great recipe to use our delicious fresh oranges? This is one of my favorite salads, and makes use of Arizona-grown dates and arugula.  Click on picture for details and recipe.