Frequently Asked Questions
Have Questions?
HomeGrove has Answers.
Get quick answers to the most common questions.
What is HomeGrove?
HomeGrove makes growing citrus trees easy by providing healthy trees, protective covers, and expert guidance, so you can enjoy homegrown oranges without the guesswork.
What comes in a HomeGrove package?
All HomeGrove packages include:
- Healthy trees direct from a certified enclosed nursery
- Individual tree protective covers to help prevent pests and disease
- Controlled release fertilizer
- Exclusive growing guides and resources
- VIP access to future releases
Can I really grow citrus trees in my backyard?
Absolutely! With the right care, citrus trees thrive in Central Florida. We provide everything you need to succeed.
I had a citrus tree that died or declined. Why will this time be different?
Growing citrus isn't as easy as in the past, but with the right knowledge and tools, you will be ready to handle it. From our experience as commercial growers, we are bringing all the things we would like to be able to do but can't because of logistical or economic reasons to you!
What about citrus greening?
Citrus greening has been a significant challenge for the commercial citrus industry, but the good news is that homeowners can take a more hands-on approach with individualized tree care, making a real difference if they know what to do. That's why we provide the guidance and resources - to help homeowners grow citrus trees at home in a way that commercial growers can't.
What are those nets that come with your trees?
Those "nets" are individual protective covers that keep the bad bugs out (the ones that spread citrus greening disease). This allows the tree to get established and helps bridge the gap towards bearing.
All this seems very different. Why not just go buy a tree from somewhere?
The normal model of a homeowner purchasing a tree from an open retail setting has not worked well.
The "old way":
- Open purchase setting causing pest and disease
- None to limited guidance
- No individual protective covers
- No fertilizer
- No support
- Frustration
The "HomeGrove Way":
- Trees direct from enclosed, certified nursery
- Ongoing guidance
- Individual protective covers indcluded
- Fertilizer included
- Ongoing support
- Success
What varieties do you sell?
We currently offer 3 different selections of citrus. Each comes with 3 trees:
- Fresh Squeezed OJ: This combo is designed for citrus lovers who want a continuous supply of homegrown, tree-ripened oranges perfect for juicing. With three different varieties that ripen at different times, you’ll enjoy a steady harvest from October through June—ensuring your morning glass of OJ is always fresh, never store-bought, just pure, homegrown Florida sunshine in every sip.
- Cocktail: This selection includes a Meyer lemon, Persian lime, and Valencia orange—all hand-selected to give you the fresh, bright flavors you need for margaritas, mojitos, whiskey sours, or even a refreshing homemade lemonade. No more rushing to the store for citrus—your perfect cocktail ingredients are growing right in your own backyard, ready to be picked and enjoyed. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just enjoying a drink after a long day, this citrus trio ensures you always have the freshest ingredients on hand.
- Culinary: The ultimate citrus trio for cooking and baking—Meyer lemon, Key lime, and Valencia orange. From adding a bright, zesty kick to seafood and salads to crafting homemade lemon curd, key lime pie, or fresh orange glaze, these homegrown citrus fruits will elevate your cooking to gourmet levels. The Meyer lemon’s subtle sweetness, the Key lime’s tangy punch, and the Valencia’s juicy versatility make this package ideal for chefs, bakers, and food lovers who want to bring the freshest flavors straight from their backyard to their table. Never settle for store-bought citrus again—experience the unmatched taste of homegrown goodness in every dish!
Do you serve my area?
Maybe! We are constantly expanding our service area. Please input your zip code on the product page of the package you prefer and see if you are in our area. If not, enter your email, and we can update you on when we are!
Currently, we can only serve customers in the state of Florida.
Do you plant the trees for me?
We offer different package levels:
- Citrus Starter: You plant the trees yourself with our guidance.
- Backyard Orchardist: We plant them for you.
- Grove Master: We plant the trees and provide soil testing analysis with customized recommendations for optimal growth.
How much time does it take to care for my trees?
Minimal. As a tree, citrus is much more hearty than annual plants like vegetables and flowers. After planting, all care should take less than 15 minutes per week with most weeks ~5 minutes!
What happens if my trees get pests or disease?
Our protective covers dramatically reduce pest and disease risk, and our education materials teaches you how to spot early signs and take action. If you ever need help, send in photos of your problem. We will address it in our monthly support sessions.
How big are the trees?
The trees are the same size as planted by authentic commercial citrus growers! Approximately 24" tall and grown in a ~1 gallon container, these trees have a balanced canopy to root ratio, making them sturdy enough to withstand transplant with minimal shock. This allows them to grow well into the future, getting bigger and stronger, while other options would look okay the day you plant it and then likely decline.
How long until my trees produce fruit?
Most trees start producing some fruit in 2-3 years, but this varies. Patience pays off, and we'll guide you every step of the way.
How long do I have access to HomeGrove resources?
You will have access to HomeGrove resources for 18 months after delivery. This should allow your trees to fill out the individual protective covers. From that point on, ongoing HomeGrove resources will be available on a membership basis based on the growing path you choose from that point on.
What time of the year is the fruit ripe?
HomeGrove packages include orange trees with each having different harvest timing, making fruit available from December through May!
How much does a HomeGrove package cost?
Pricing varies by package level and services included.
Do you offer refunds or replacements?
Due to the live nature of citrus trees and the "one-way" pattern of plant movement required of a certified nursery, all sales are final. However, we offer a 90-day success "replace a tree guarantee." We will replace one tree if it dies in the first 90 days after delivery due to non extreme circumstances. Another 90 days of extended warranty can be earned by posting weekly tree update pictures (every week after delivery) on facebook or instagram with the hashtag #HomeGroveCares . Extreme circumstances includes severe weather events, gross negligence such as not using/maintaining the individual protective covers, or intentional harm to the trees.
How do I get started?
- Choose your package
- Enter your zip code to verify service
- Checkout and receive everything you need to start growing citrus the HomeGrove way!