How Big is a Meyer Lemon Tree?
Meyer lemons are a variety of citrus tree well-known for their sweet flavoured, juicy fruits. But, how big do these trees grow? Though their size varies depending on variety, location and growing environment, Meyer lemons reach six to 10 feet in height and can spread five to eight feet wide at maturity. Their size and compact structure make them a great choice for home gardens and yards.
Meyer lemon trees don’t require pruning when they’re young, but they need regular pruning when they get older. Proper pruning encourages strong growth and keeps the tree smaller, making it more manageable. Pruning also helps maximize fruit production, while shaping the tree’s size and form. While pruning won’t significantly reduce the size of an established tree, it can help curb its spread.
In terms of climate, Meyer lemons like dry summers and plenty of sunshine. An ideal temperature range sits at around 18-30°C, although the trees can tolerate cooler temperatures for brief periods. Trees thrive in nutrient-rich soil with a pH balance between 6-7.5. It’s important to ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent root-rot.
When planting a Meyer lemon tree, make sure to choose a location that gets full sun. Ideally, the tree should be sheltered from cold evening winds. Before planting, it pays to give the tree a gentle shake to release any soil mites in the root ball, then water it well. It’s also important to watch out for pests and diseases that can damage the tree.
Meyer lemons can be a great addition to gardens, providing not only delicious fruit but an attractive ornamental tree as well. By understanding the basics of upkeep, size and habitat you can ensure that your Meyer lemon tree stays healthy and produces maximum fruit.
Varieties of Meyer Lemons
Meyer lemons come in a variety of sizes and shapes. While the ‘Improved Meyer’ is the most popular option, there are other varieties, each with its own unique characteristics. For instance, the ‘Eureka’ variety produces a rounder fruit with a sweet flavor, sharp aroma and thin skin. ‘Lemonade’ Meyer lemons are rounder still, with a smooth skin and a golden hue. The ‘Meyer Improved’ has a more oblong shape and an intense flavor, making it perfect for baking and fresh cocktails.
Meyer lemon trees are also available in different sizes – from mini to standard, and dwarf. Dwarf varieties reach between two and four feet in height, and around four to six feet wide, making them perfect for small yards and balconies. Meanwhile, larger trees can reach between eight and 10 feet tall.
When selecting a Meyer lemon tree, it pays to decide on the right size, variety and climate. Knowing the key requirements and climate preferences of the tree helps ensure it’s a success in your garden.
Watering Requirement for a Meyer Lemon Tree
Meyer lemon trees require regular watering – especially in summer, when they’re actively growing. During the warmer months, they need five to 10 gallons of water per week. It’s important to keep the soil consistently moist, but try not to overwater, as this can lead to root-rot.
In the winter, cut back on irrigation to a few gallons per month, as the tree will be dormant. A good indication of when to water is when the leaves start to lose their gloss and drop. For the wettest months, install a soaker hose to reduce water waste and to promote deep and even watering.
Where possible, add a layer of organic mulch around the tree, as this helps regulate soil moisture. As the mulch breaks down over time, it also releases nutrients into the soil. Aim for a depth of three to four inches and ensure the mulch is kept two to four inches away from the tree’s trunk.
Irrigation plays a key role in a Meyer lemon tree’s growth and fruit production. Constant and consistent water is vital for the tree to thrive and deliver its delicious fruits.
Fertilizing a Meyer Lemon Tree
Meyer lemons require regular fertilizing to ensure optimal growth and fruit production. A balanced all-purpose citrus fertilizer should be applied three times a year – in the spring, summer and fall. Fertilizing should be done after heavy rains and/or after irrigating.
Before each application, water the tree well to determine how deep the fertilizer should be spread. Place the fertilizer in a circle around the tree, four to six inches away from the trunk, and using a hand rake, work it into the surface roots. Don’t add more fertilizer than is recommended on the packaging.
It’s important not to overfertilize your Meyer lemon tree as this can cause fertilizer burn and poor fruit production. Organic fertilizers, like compost and manure, can provide additional nutrition for the tree. Work a few inches into the soil around the tree and ensure the tree is well watered afterwards.
Another option is foliar feeding. A foliar feed is a liquid fertilizer applied directly to the leaves. This fertilizer can provide a boost of nutrition and can be used on its own or applied in combination with a traditional granular fertilizer regimen.
Fertilizing is an important part of caring for a Meyer lemon tree. By understanding the right fertilizer to use, how often to fertilize and how to feed the tree, you can keep your Meyer lemon happy and healthy.
Protecting a Meyer Lemon Tree
Though generally considered pest and disease-resistant, Meyer lemons still need proper protection. Common problems include aphids, mealybugs, mites, scale and caterpillars, which can be treated using horticultural oil or neem oil. These sprays should be applied in the early morning, on a cloudy day, until the pests are eliminated.
Another common problem is fungal diseases. Citrus canker is a bacterial disease that causes lesions on the fruit and leaves. Brown rot, meanwhile, spreads quickly and can cause fruit to rot in just a few days. As well as spraying Horticultural oil or neem oil, trim any affected limbs and dispose of all fallen leaves and fruit.
Fungicides can be used to prevent and control fungal diseases. When applying, focus particularly on the lower branches and trunk, as these areas are most vulnerable. Apply the fungicide early in the morning (or late afternoon if using a liquid spray) so that the leaves get a chance to dry in the sun before nightfall.
Keeping an eye on the tree and being proactive with applications can help protect it against pests and diseases. Where possible, keep the tree away from other susceptible plants, as some bugs and diseases can spread quickly.
Harvesting Meyer Lemons
Meyer lemons can take anywhere between three to five months to reach peak ripeness, with the season typically lasting from winter to early summer. It pays to use an inspection method to determine ripeness. Lemons can only be harvested at the peak of their flavor, aroma and juice quality.
To test for ripeness, pull gently on the fruit. A ripe lemon should tear away from the stem easily and have a strong, sweet smell. Lemons can be harvested gently with the help of branch cutters or by hand. Overripe fruits can be harvested to make marmalade, or to add to salads or pasta dishes.
Freshly harvested Meyer lemons can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four weeks or can be frozen for future use. Lemons can be frozen sliced, halved, whole, as zest or concentrate juice. To help maintain quality and flavor, it’s important to blanch any fruits before freezing.
By understanding the harvesting process, you can ensure that you’re getting the most out of your Meyer lemon tree. Knowing when and how to harvest the fruits can ensure that you get the most flavorful, juicy lemons.
