When it comes to Meyer lemon trees, temperature plays a key role in the health, growth, and productivity of the trees. Meyler lemons thrive best in temperatures of 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, and a slight decrease during the night-time. Anything below 40 degrees Fahrenheit is too cold for a Meyer lemon tree, as it can have fatal consequences to the health of the tree.
The Meyer lemons are most at risk of damage when the temperatures reach low levels and that is why it is essential to measure temperature regularly. First off, be sure to use a thermometer, as standard thermometers are not always accurate. In addition to this, be sure to check the temperature at different times of the day as this will ensure that the lowest temperature is being recorded and thus can be used to determine the temperatures that the Meyer lemon tree is exposed to.
When temperatures reach levels below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the Meyer lemon tree will suffer from a freeze. During this process, the cells of the tree are damaged due to temperatures which are too cold. The leaves and flowers can also become damaged due to freezing. Depending on the extent of the freezing, the Meyer lemon tree may have to be replanted or even replaced all together.
If temperatures are too cold for a prolonged period of time, it is important to take protective measures for the tree such as wrapping the trunk and the branches in bubble wrap or plastic. The bubble wrap or plastic should be secured tightly so that the cold air does not seep in. Additionally, a thick layer of mulch around the Meyer lemon tree can help to protect the tree from the cold temperatures.
It is also important to avoid pruning the tree when temperatures are too cold as this can cause more damage than good. Pruning the branches of the Meyer lemon tree will make the tree vulnerable to the cold temperatures and can cause the branches to be prone to winter damage. Thus, the best time to prune the Meyer lemon tree is in late spring or early summer when temperatures are much warmer.
It is essential to take the necessary precautions to protect a Meyer lemon tree from the cold weather and to ensure that temperatures remain within the suitable range. If temperatures do drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit or are below 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit for a prolonged period of time, measure temperatures regularly and take protective measures in order to ensure the health and safety of the tree.
Preventative Measures
There are several preventative measures that may be taken to protect your Meyer lemon tree from the cold. Proper planting is crucial to the health of any tree, Meyer lemon or otherwise. Your Meyer lemon tree should be planted in a location with well-draining soil and adequate sunlight. When planting a Meyer lemon tree, select a spot that gets a full day of sun, not less than 6 hours. Make sure to ammend the soil with organic matter before planting to ensure that it is nutrient-rich as well. Be sure to provide proper space between the tree and other vegetation and structures in your garden.
In locations with cold winters, it may be beneficial to create a sheltered location for your Meyer lemon tree, such as an enclosure that can be open to the elements but protect your tree from wind and frost. In addition, you can construct a cold frame around your tree to provide extra insulation. Cold frames are easy to build and provide an extra layer for support for your Meyer lemon tree, as well as shade in summer months. Furthermore, if temperatures are forecast to drop below 40 degrees, you can cover the tree itself with a frost blanket or tarp.
In addition to providing your Meyer lemon tree with a sheltered location and insulation, it is important to water your tree in small intervals on a regular basis. This will help to protect the roots of the tree, allowing them to retain as much warmth and moisture as possible. During warm months, your tree should be watered deeply once a week and kept slightly moist in between waterings in an effort to regulate soil temperatures. In cold months, it is important to check the soil around your Meyer lemon tree often to make sure that it is not drying out.
Finally, you can also prune your Meyer lemon tree in winter. Pruning in winter will be more beneficial for your tree as it can help to shape the branches to remain open, allowing the sun to reach the branches and leaves. Since the tree does not need as much energy to grow in the winter, it can put its energy toward producing new growth which can help to bolster itself against the cold. Pruning should be done in late winter before any danger of frost.
Fertilizing the Tree
Giving your Meyer lemon tree proper nutrition is another key to helping keep it healthy. Fertilize your Meyer lemon tree every three months with a balanced fertilizer, such as one with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphate and potash. Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer promotes healthy growth and helps to protect the tree against the extreme temperatures. For best results, use a fertilizer that is specifically designed for citrus trees.
To avoid any potential burn, especially with extreme cold temperatures, it is best to avoid fertilizing your Meyer lemon tree in the winter months. Moreover, when fertilizing your tree, you should always water the fertilizer in so that it can be properly absorbed into the soil. Too much fertilizer can actually be detrimental to your Meyer lemon tree, as it can cause an overload of nitrogen which can cause the tree to put on too much growth.
For an added layer of protection, you can also mulch your Meyer lemon tree, which can help to regulate soil temperature. Mulch also prevents weeds from growing around the tree, reducing competition for water and nutrients. Additionally, the decaying organic matter from the mulch can help to provide nutrients for the tree. For best results, use mulch made from organic matter such as wood chips.
Conclusion
To summarize, cold temperatures can be harmful to Meyer lemon trees. Any temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit can cause serious damage to the health of the tree, and even temperatures between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit can be too cold in some cases. It is essential to take preventive measures such as providing the tree with a sheltered location, using insulation such as a cold frame or frost blanket, and fertilizing regularly with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Furthermore, it is important to monitor soil temperatures and be sure to mulch and water your tree as needed. By taking these measures, you can ensure your Meyer lemon tree stays healthy and properly protected from the cold.
