Finger Lime Alstonville

• Alstonville is a superior variety developed in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales. It's known for consistent cropping and excellent fruit quality.
• Produces cylindrical fruit 6-10cm long filled with lime-flavoured caviar pearls in shades of pink, green, or pale yellow. Fruit ripens from late summer through winter.
• A compact growing native citrus tree reaching 2-4 metres tall. Perfect size for suburban gardens and large containers.
• Highly sought after by chefs and home cooks for its unique texture and intense citrus burst. The caviar pearls add a gourmet touch to seafood, salads, and drinks.

• Water deeply twice weekly in summer and reduce to weekly in cooler months. Check soil moisture before watering to prevent root rot.
• Position in full sun for maximum fruiting, though part shade is tolerated in hot climates. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal.
• Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost or use a premium citrus potting mix. pH should be slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0).
• Feed with slow-release citrus fertiliser in spring and autumn, supplementing with monthly liquid feeds during active growth. Avoid over-fertilising which causes excessive foliage at the expense of fruit.
• Prune lightly after fruiting to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches. Wear protective gloves as branches have sharp thorns.
• Protect from frost and cold winds, especially when young. In cooler regions, grow in a pot that can be moved to a sheltered position.
• Fruit ripens from late summer through winter; harvest when skin shows slight colour change and fruit feels heavy. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

• Prefers full sun to part shade with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for best fruiting. Protect from strong afternoon sun in hotter inland regions.
• Water deeply once or twice weekly during warmer months, reducing in winter. Allow top 5cm of soil to dry between waterings.
• Thrives in warm, frost-free positions with protection from cold winds. Ideal temperature range is 20-30°C.
• Mulch around the root zone with organic matter to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch away from the trunk.
• Feed with a slow-release citrus fertiliser in spring and autumn for optimal fruit production. Apply liquid seaweed monthly during active growth.

• Citrus gall wasp can cause woody galls on branches; prune affected areas before August and destroy prunings. Monitor regularly during spring and summer.
• Scale insects and aphids may appear on new growth; treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds for natural control.
• Root rot occurs in poorly draining soil or with overwatering; ensure excellent drainage and allow soil to dry between waterings. Yellowing leaves often indicate waterlogged conditions.
• Thorns can make harvesting challenging; wear thick gloves when picking fruit or pruning. Handle with care to avoid scratches.