That tree is now huge. In fact, I really need to post an updated image – the thing is loaded with Key limes right now and I don’t even cover it.

Since it worked so well with a Key lime tree, which is a true USDA Zone 10 citrus, I thought to myself, “Hey, self. What if you tried planting a cold-hardier Zone 9 citrus tree right up against the south wall of a house in USDA Zone 8 Georgia? If it worked, you’d be actually be growing citrus in Georgia! GEORGIA!”

So I did:

That’s a young kumquat tree. Kumquats are one of the hardier citrus species – and I got it on sale at Lowes World for $14.00. If the experiment fails, that’s not a huge loss.

So – if I do manage to grow citrus in Georgia? You’ll be hearing about it here!

My main worry is that the ground will be too cold and mucky in the winter, since the tree is planted in clay. Still, I give this puppy a better than 50% chance of survival since it’s right flat against a south wall and it’s in front of a window that will be leaking heat from the house on cold nights. If my sister manages to cover it, that chance goes up (in my mind) to a 75% chance or better.

We shall see. The first couple of years are the riskiest since the tree is so small.

If you live in Georgia or another Zone 8 state, try the same trick and let me know how it goes. For science!

UPDATE: To see my south wall tropical gardening system outside the tropics, check out this video.