Growing a lemon tree in a container can be a rewarding experience. Lemons can be used in a variety of ways and can add a refreshing flavor to culinary dishes, while they also can add a citrusy aroma to your home. Though there are some challenges to this task, with some preparation you can successfully watch your lemon tree thrive in a pot.
Sunlight
The first challenge that has to be dealt with when growing a lemon tree indoors is providing enough light. The tree needs full sun of near it for many hours of the day to growlemon fruits. You can position your container near a window, although it is often harder to provide the perfect combination of sun and cool air that your tree needs indoors. To get around this you can use fluorescent lights, but in the long run you are better off providing it with access to a balcony or patio with plenty of direct sunshine.
Soil
The soil for your lemon tree should ideally be well-draining, such as a cactus mix. You need to ensure that any soil used will provide the tree with essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. You need to pay special attention to the pH levels of the soil, as the ideal levels vary slightly depending on the type of lemon tree you have. If you can’t get the right soil mix, you can use a generic potting mix and add fertilizer to it every couple of months.
Watering
Watering your lemon tree is a rather straightforward process; it just needs the appropriate amount of water. When the top of the soil becomes dry, you can water the tree with warm water and let it drain from the bottom. Do not over-water the tree, as it can be fatal for not just the tree but for the soil too. It’s also important to note that when watering, you should avoid getting the leaves of the tree wet as this can cause them to yellow and shrivel.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary for your lemon tree to maintain a healthy shape. It is also necessary to remove dead and diseased branches to prevent the spread of disease. Pruning is best done once the plant has finished blooming. During the growing season, diseased and dead leaves can be removed to increase the available nutrients to the tree. You should always use sharp and sterile pruning tools when pruning a lemon tree.
Repotting
Your lemon tree may need to be repotted periodically. This is necessary to replenish the soil with nutrients and to provide the roots with enough room to grow. You should repot it once every two to three years and use fresh soil and compost. Pay special attention to the drainage of the pot, as poor drainage can lead to soggy roots and root rot.
Pests
Pests are another obstacle you would need to tackle when growing a lemon tree indoors. The most common pests on lemon trees are aphids, mites, thrips and scales. If the problem persists, you can use an insecticidal soap to get rid of the pests. If that doesn’t work, you may need to contact a professional.
Fertilizer
Fertilizing is an important part of growing a lemon tree in a pot. You need to choose a fertilizer that provides your tree with Nitrogen and Potassium and apply it once or twice a month, making sure not to exceed the daily limit. It is important to always read the instructions on the fertilizer label to get the appropriate amount.
Temperature and Humidity
Keeping your lemon tree in the right temperatures will make or break the success of your tree. Lemon trees need a temperature that doesn’t drop below 50F (10C). If the temperature drops below that, the tree can experience symptoms such as yellowing leaves. Also, the tree will do best in humidity levels between 40-60%. To maintain the humidity level you can use a humidifier or a damp towel.
Winter Care
Lemon trees need some extra care during the winter months. If your tree is in a colder climate, you will need to provide extra protection. You should move the tree indoors and place it in a sunny spot. If not possible, cover the tree with burlap or a plastic sheet to protect it from the cold. You may also need to make sure to reduce the amount of fertilizer and water during this time.
Pests and Disease Control
Another important factor in growing a lemon tree in a container is preventing it from getting diseased or infested with pests. To prevent pest infestations, you can use neem oil or insecticidal soap. These have natural repellent properties and are safe for use with edible trees like the lemon. It is also important to inspect the leaves on a regular basis for any signs of diseases such as leaf spot and black spot. If you spot any of these, you can use fungicides to treat them.
Harvesting
It is important to know when to harvest your lemons. Lemons usually take four to six months to fully ripen. The color of the lemon will change from green to yellow when they are ready to be harvested. It is best to pick them when they are ripe and can easily be plucked from the tree. If you harvest them too soon, the lemons will be sour and the harvest will be smaller.
Frost Protection
If you live in an area where frost is common, you will need to be extra careful with your lemon tree. When temperatures drop below freezing, you need to move the tree indoors or to a greenhouse. Cover it with lightweight cloth to protect it from the cold temperatures. You should also reduce watering the tree during this time to prevent the roots from freezing.
