outside container lime tree 1 large branch is losing leaves and smaller branches of it it are dying altogether

Question

We live the Bay Area Northern California and have an outside container lime that has been healthy for 7+ years. Now, we have one major branch that is losing it’s leaves and dying. I do not see any mold or critters. Do I need to prune the entire branch back to the trunk? we are a little guilty of uneven watering frequencies but then I would expect to see similar conditions on all branches of the tree. The others still have a few pieces of fruit and lots of leaves.

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Answer 1

That is strange. It is a possibility that the tree needs some fertilizer. How often do you feed it? I would recommend at the very least 1 or 2 times a year.

You may want to apply dolomitic lime, and iron sulphate to the soil. This will ensure the soil pH is about where it should be, then the iron sulfate will bring it down just a notch to exactly where it should be.

Yes you will cut this branch back all the way. Keep all new tiny shoots trimmed off near the base, as there will be new growth trying to replace it. Just focus on what is already on the tree.

Here is an article for more information on the care of the tree: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/lime/potted-lime-trees.htm