Meyer lemons are a cherished variety of lemon tree characterized by a balanced mixture of sweet and acidic jewelry. As such, they are popular additions to many home gardens as well as commercial ones. Meyer lemons are often found in their signature green hue, but it is a common misconception to think that they always remain green until harvested. In fact, Meyer lemons can, and often do, turn yellow while still on the tree.
The specific color of a Meyer lemon is determined by the surrounding environment, the amount of sunlight it receives, and the nutrient uptake of the particular tree. Meyer lemons, like all varieties of lemon, require a great deal of sunlight to thrive. When exposed to prolonged periods of intense sunlight, Meyer lemons tend to turn from green to yellow.
Additionally, Meyer lemons may acquire their yellow hue if the nutrient uptake of the tree is insufficient. If the tree does not receive adequate amounts of potassium, nitrogen and magnesium, among other nutrients, green lemons may begin to turn yellow as the tree attempts to survive on a low supply of essential minerals.
Furthermore, the temperature of the surrounding environment may also play a role in the color of a Meyer lemon. When the environment is especially hot, an otherwise green lemon may take on a slight yellow tint. This is due to the enzyme amylase which triggers the production of yellow pigments when exposed to heat.
It is also important to note that some Meyer lemons never turn yellow even under optimal conditions. This is largely determined by the variety of the lemon, so be sure to read up on the particular lemon tree you purchase to get a better understanding of its color capabilities.
It is perfectly normal for many Meyer lemons to turn from green to yellow as they age. However, if you are worried that your Meyer lemons are changing colors too quickly, there are several things you can do to slow the process. To ensure that the Meyer lemons on your tree remain green for longer, provide them with ample shade, keep the tree well-hydrated, and make sure the soil contains all the necessary nutrients.
In summary, Meyer lemons can and often do turn yellow while still on the tree. This is determined by a variety of factors such as the surrounding environment, the amount of sunlight, and the nutrient uptake of the tree. Thankfully, taking precautionary steps such as providing shade and proper hydration can help slow down this process.
Environmental Factors
Most Meyer lemons will change color when exposed to long periods of intense sunlight. The temperature of the surrounding environment can also influence the color of Meyer lemons, as hot temperatures will encourage the production of yellow pigment enzymes. Additionally, if the soil does not provide adequate nutrition, Meyer lemons may take on a yellowish hue as the tree struggles to survive.
Variety
The variety of the Meyer lemon is a critical factor in understanding why lemons may turn yellow while still on the tree. While it is common and normal for Meyer lemons to transition from green to yellow, there are some varieties that remain exclusively green even when exposed to high levels of sunlight and lack of sufficient nutrients.
Precautionary Steps
In order to keep Meyer lemons on the tree green for as long as possible, gardeners should make sure to provide ample shade, keep the tree well-hydrated and be mindful of the nutrition levels in the soil. Additionally, it may be helpful to research the particular Meyer lemon variety that you are growing to get an accurate understanding of its color capabilities.
Conclusion
Meyer lemons turning from green to yellow is a natural and common process, largely determined by environmental factors, the variety of tree, and the nutrient uptake of the soil. If one wishes to keep Meyer lemons on the tree as green as possible, it is important to provide shade, maintain hydration, and be mindful of the tree’s nutrition levels.
