key lime fruit tastes bad

Question

We have had our key lime tree about 7 or 8 years. Had its first fruit last year – only a few limes. This year there is a bunch but they smell weird and taste horrible. Tree is about 8 to 9 feet tall – nice looking tree. Has southern sun exposure as well as some east and west. Is not where water stands around it. We’ve tried picking the fruit when it is little and as they grow – trying various sizes. but they all stink! Inside is dry with big seeds, although the last couple picked have been juicy. But still stinky. Any hints or suggestions? Thank you.

Answer 1

The most often problem with dry and small citrus is caused by lack of water and soil nutrients.
Check the moisture level and watering practices to the links below.
Adding 2 to 3 inches of hardwood mulch will help with moisture.

Also a soil test can be very beneficial. This will tell you what you may need to add to the soil for fruiting success.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/lime/mexican-key-lime-tree-info.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/lime/dry-lime-fruit-what-causes-dry-limes.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-soil.htm