I planted some seeds from my mother in law's Key Lime tree and they sprouted, and I know I should graft them onto a rootstock, but how necessary is that? I live in Central Florida, so it doesn't get very cold. I just just don't want to have to do the grafting if I don't need to. If I do need to, what would be recommended?
Lots of people grow key limes that are not grafted. Plants are usually grafted for a couple of reasons; most generally for disease resistance and/or to regulate tree size. Growing a tree in clean potting soil will keep the risk of disease low, and the pot will help control the size of the tree. If you choose to plant the tree in the ground, wait a few years. Once the tree has nice root system then transplant outside. Keep up a good fertilizer program and clean up around the tree and you will most likely have a happy, healthy tree :-) Hope this helps
