Question 1

Which fruit tree is easiest to grow on a Mumbai balcony?

Accepted Answer

Lemon (kagzi nimbu) is the easiest starting point. It tolerates containers well, loves Mumbai heat, produces fruit multiple times a year once mature, and requires minimal care beyond regular watering and a quarterly feed of vermicompost.

Question 2

How long before a container fruit tree gives its first harvest?

Accepted Answer

Grafted plants are the fastest — lemon and pomegranate can fruit in 2-3 years. Seed-grown trees take 5-7 years and are not recommended for container growing. Always buy grafted saplings from a reliable nursery.

Question 3

What size pot do I need for a fruit tree?

Accepted Answer

Start with a 20-25 litre container (roughly 16-18 inches diameter) for small trees like lemon and curry leaf. Move up to 30-40 litre containers for guava and pomegranate once the tree is 2 years old. Larger roots mean more fruit.

Question 4

Why is my lemon tree flowering but not fruiting?

Accepted Answer

This is almost always a pollination issue combined with heat stress. Hand-pollinate by transferring pollen between flowers with a small paintbrush in the early morning. Ensure the tree is getting 6-8 hours of direct sun and reduce watering slightly when buds appear — mild stress encourages fruit set.

Question 5

Can I grow a mango tree on a balcony in Mumbai?

Accepted Answer

Technically yes, but it is difficult. Mango needs a very large container (60+ litres), takes 4-7 years to fruit, and is sensitive to waterlogging during monsoon. Amrapali and Mallika are the most container-friendly dwarf varieties. For most Mumbai balconies, lemon or pomegranate is a more rewarding choice.

Question 6

How do I fertilise a container fruit tree?

Accepted Answer

Feed every 6-8 weeks during the growing season (October-March) with vermicompost mixed into the top layer of soil. When the tree is flowering, add bone meal (1 tablespoon per 20L container) to boost phosphorus for fruit development. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers when the tree is in flower — they push leaf growth at the expense of fruit.

How to Grow Fruit Trees in Pots and Containers in India

How to Grow Fruit Trees in Pots and Containers in India