Meyer lemon trees are cultivated for their fragrant flowers and plump, juicy fruits. As a citrus tree, the Meyer lemon thrives best in plenty of sunshine. But does meyer lemon tree need full sun to survive and thrive?
The short answer is yes, meyer lemon tree needs full sun for optimal growth, particularly when it comes to fruit production. For best results, choose a sunny spot that gets 6-8 hours of direct sunlight every day, even during the winter months when days are shorter, making sure to avoid cloudy or shady locations.
Growers also need to remember that although meyer lemon tree needs full sun, it should be protected from strong winds that would otherwise dry out its leaves and roots, which will lead to stunted growth and decreased fruit production.
When it comes to watering, water meyer lemon tree generously, particularly during warmer months. Allow the top 12 inches of soil to dry out completely between waterings, then water thoroughly until the water drains out of the bottom of the pot.
It is also important for growers to be aware of the fertilizer needs of meyer lemon tree. Generally speaking, citrus trees need a lot of nitrogen and phosphorous, but not as much potassium. A balanced citrus fertilizer should be applied every two months during the growing season, usually from spring to fall.
Lastly, for the long-term health of the meyer lemon tree, trim any branches that are growing too close together or crowding the center. This will help to increase air circulation, which is essential for preventing fungal diseases.
Planting and Care Tips
When it comes to planting, growers should first select a pot that is well-draining and large enough to accommodate the meyer lemon tree. A potting mix that is specifically formulated for citrus trees is also recommended, as well as adding a light top dressing of compost or manure to the soil if needed.
When planting, make sure to leave enough space between the tree and sides of the pot, as the meyer lemon tree expands and grows over time. Additionally, the pot should be at least 12 inches deep and should contain several drainage holes.
For optimal growing conditions, grow meyer lemon tree in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight every day. It is also important to make sure that the tree is well-drained, as citrus trees do not tolerate wet roots. It is also recommended to fertilize the tree every two months during the growing season, and prune any overgrown or overcrowded branches to promote air circulation.
Climate Requirements
Meyer lemon tree prefers a warm climate with plenty of sun and heat to reach full maturity. This type of citrus tree is sensitive to frost and chill, and growers should take care to insulate their tree if the temperature drops below 40 degrees Fahrenheit in order to protect it from the cold.
When it comes to watering, the meyer lemon tree needs to be watered deeply but infrequently. Allow the top 12 inches of soil to dry out completely between waterings, then water thoroughly until the water drains out of the bottom of the pot. This type of tree is also sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other problems.
Lastly, meyer lemon tree do need protection from strong winds, which can dry out their leaves and roots. Trim any branches that are growing too close together or crowding the center to improve air circulation, and make sure to cover the tree during strong winds to protect it from potential damage.
Pest and Disease Control
In order to protect meyer lemon tree from pests and disease, regular monitoring is key. Make sure to check for any signs of pests or fungus, such as whiteflies, scale, or citricola scale, as well as leaf spot or other fungal diseases. If any of these pests or fungi are spotted, it is important to take action quickly to prevent any damage from spreading to the rest of the tree.
Insecticidal soaps or neem oil can be used to control pests, and pruning and removing any affected leaves is recommended for controlling or preventing fungal diseases. If a fungicide is deemed necessary, make sure to choose one that is specifically designed for citrus trees.
It is also important to note that meyer lemon trees are sensitive to excessive amounts of nitrogen, which can lead to reduced flowering and fruiting. To prevent over-fertilizing, stick to a balanced renewable fertilizer, such as kelp or fish emulsion, and only apply according to manufacturer’s directions.
Pollination
The meyer lemon tree is self-fertile, which means that it is capable of pollinating itself without the need for another tree. However, it is still important to ensure that the flowers are getting sufficient exposure to pollinators, such as bees, to ensure optimal pollination.
Unlike other self-fertile trees, meyer lemon tree needs to be pollinated from the inside out, meaning that the outermost flowers need to be pollinated first in order for the inner ones to be do the same. To aid in the pollination process, growers can continually tap the branches of their trees to shake out pollen, or introduce a horde of honeybees to the tree.
Additionally, although meyer lemon tree is self-fertile, nearby trees of the same type can produce larger and more flavorful fruits by promoting cross-pollination. Therefore, growers who are not worried about growing larger yields should still consider planting multiple trees of the same variety, as this can have a positive effect on the overall flavor of their fruits.
Fruiting and Harvesting
Meyer lemon tree generally takes 1-2 years to begin flowering and fruiting, and regular pruning, fertilizer, and watering routines help to ensure a healthy tree and optimal yields. During the growing season, it is important to make sure that the tree has adequate amounts of sunlight and water, and to fertilize every two months.
The perfect time to harvest meyer lemons is when their skins turn yellow, as this is when the fruits are the sweetest. During the harvest season, make sure to pick any overripe fruits immediately, as these can rob the tree of energy and nutrients and potentially hinder future growth and yields.
Additionally, make sure to store the meyer lemons properly after harvesting in order to prevent them from spoiling. Meyer lemons can usually be stored for up to two weeks in the refrigerator, or up to four weeks in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
For optimal storage, make sure to wrap the meyer lemons in plastic or store them in an airtight container and use them as soon as possible. Although meyer lemons can be frozen for long-term storage, their texture and flavor may be adversely affected due to the cold temperatures.
