I work in my home as a full-time freelance writer, content producer, media specialists, and tech guru. But sometimes, like everyone, I get stressed. I get in sad moods. I need a lift. I get this a number of ways: by talking to friends, taking a walk, my music and songwriting, and working on my independent projects. All of these are great pursuits because it makes me feel like I am working on something that is taking me closer to my goals.
But once in awhile I also need to get outside. I live in a small (but nice) rental house right now so having a big garden is not possible for me right now. (Not that I would want a big garden!) But I had tried out miniature potted roses and fruit tree plants in the past and decided I would give it another try. Miniatures are easy to grow (compared to their bigger cousins), require less space, and allow you to control the environment better in a contained area. So I decided to try it.
Why Miniatures?
As mentioned above, miniature plants are space-saving. You don't have to have a big area of ground outside or large areas of garden space to grow them. Even if you just have a studio apartment like many in the city do, you can raise these plants in a window box or small pots.
Hardiness
Miniature fruit trees are hardy. They grow easily, even in less-than-perfect conditions. If you do not live in a great sun-soaked area like Florida where oranges and lemons grow easily, you may want to consider the miniature version.
Cute Factor
One reason I really like miniature lemon, lime, and orange plants is that they are really cute! The fruit looks just like the full version, only much smaller, so you get the same great taste without having to go out into an orchard and pick fruit from big trees.
Easy Care
In general, these little orange and lemon trees are just like house plants. Just water them as you would any normal houseplant. The lemon tree I bought is called a Meyer Lemon and you can find them at nurseries online or on Amazon as well. They are unique and a conversation piece. The orange tree is a Valencia Orange and is also easy to care for. You can fertilize them before fruit-bearing season (usually spring to early Fall) but they will usually grow and thrive even without food. Do put them in direct sunlight however as much as possible. As you could guess, miniature fruit trees are sun-lovers, just like their larger-sized cousins.
Good for the Earth
Remember that, not only will you be doing something for yourself, and having the joy out of caring for a living thing, but you are also giving back to the earth and the environment. By raising small fruit trees (or any kinds of plants), you make the air and the earth healthier for you and others as well and add to the earth's ecology system.
FUN FUN FUN!
Finally, raising small fruit plants is really fun! I just started it today and already my mood is more cheery. They don't have fruit yet, as they were just shipped today, but I know they will and it will be a reward to know that I am helping them thrive. In return, they will give me years of beautiful green foliage and small fruit to enjoy.
Lastly, these little miniature fruit trees are a real conversation piece. People will look with amazement when they come visit at your special trees that grow from a pot and bear fruit. Put some miniature lemon in their tea and watch them smile. Well, have fun with your miniatures if you try this. It's a great hobby and I'll post more articles once I progress and tell you what I learn along the way.
Happy planting!