Growing a lemon tree in a pot is not as daunting a task as one might think. However, it does require some basic knowledge and skill. To get the process started, it is essential to choose an appropriately sized pot for the root system – pick one that is 8-10 inches in diameter – to give the tree enough room to spread and thrive. Fill the pot with well-drained potting soil and plant the lemon tree seedling in its new home. Be sure to leave some space around the top of the pot so that water can drain freely.
The next step is to give the tree the nutrition it needs to thrive. Adding fertilizer to the potting soil is essential to promote healthy growth and keep the tree properly nourished. It is important to use a fertilizer specifically formulated for citrus tree plants and to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Watering is also important, as citrus trees need regular hydration to sustain a healthy root system and produce sweet, juicy fruits. Aim to water the lemon tree twice a week and make sure the soil is always slightly moist.
To encourage strong growth and sweet fruits, it is important to ensure the tree gets plenty of sunlight. Place the pot near a south-facing window and away from drafts. Make sure to rotate the pot every couple of weeks to promote even growth on all sides of the tree. Since a lemon tree grown in a pot is more susceptible to cold, it is essential to keep the tree indoors and away from any cold rays of the sun. A healthy lemon tree should be pruned about three times a year. Prune in late winter or early spring to remove unhealthy, diseased, or dead branches, and to promote robust improved growth.
When it comes to harvesting lemons, patience is key. Depending on the type of tree and the climate, it can take up to four years before the tree begins producing fruits. When the lemons are ready to be harvested, they should be picked in the morning when they are still ripe and juicy. Carefully twist the fruit off of the tree, avoiding any unnecessary contact with the stems. After the fruit has been gathered, rake off any leaves that may have fallen and dispose of them to avoid bringing any pests or diseases home.
Last but not least, pests and diseases can be a major issue when growing a lemon tree in a pot. To keep them away, it is important to inspect the tree regularly and keep an eye out for any signs of infestation. If pests are found, treat the plant immediately with a suitable insecticide or fungicide. This prevents the pests or diseases from spreading and keeps the tree healthy and happy.
Protect the Lemon Tree from Cold Weather
When growing a lemon tree in a pot, it is important to protect it from cold weather, as this can impede growth and reduce the tree’s ability to produce sweet fruits. Since a lemon tree is not as hardy as one grown in the ground, it’s best to keep it indoors or to provide it with some sort of protection like wrapping it in a blanket during cold fronts. Keeping the tree in a warm and sheltered location increases the chances of successful growth and bountiful harvests. Additionally, making sure the tree is never saturated in water is critical, as poor drainage can leave the roots vulnerable to cold and frost damage.
Ensure Appropriate Moisture Levels
To make sure the soil remains at the right level of moisture, it is important to apply the right amount of water. Over-watering will lead to root-rot, while under-watering can stunt growth. The most reliable way to keep the soil moist is to use a moisture gauge to measure the level at various depths. This will indicate when it is necessary to water the plant and it prevents over-watering which can weaken the root system and make the lemon tree vulnerable to pests and diseases. Furthermore, when watering the tree, it is recommended to use room temperature water as cold water may shock the root system and stunt growth.
Use Fertilizers for Optimal Growth
Apart from appropriate watering, it is also essential to use fertilizers to help the lemon tree grow vigorously. Using slow-release fertilizer every four weeks can provide lemon trees with the nutrients they need to thrive. When premixed soil is used, fertilizer may not be necessary, however, a periodic top dressing of organic material like compost or manure will strengthen the plant’s root system and give it the energy needed to produce sweet, juicy fruits.
Deal with Pests and Diseases with Insecticides and Fungicides
It is important to treat any pests or diseases that may be affecting the lemon tree as soon as possible. Insecticides and fungicides can be used to keep them away, but make sure to first identify the pest or disease so that the right product can be used. Insecticides work best when used during the early stages of an infestation while fungicides can be used to treat root rot, powdery mildew and other fungal diseases.
Manage the Tree’s Growth Properly
To ensure healthy growth, pruning is essential. Cut away any dead or damaged branches in late winter or early spring and cut back any overly vigorous branches to promote more even growth across the tree. It is also important to rotate the pot regularly to ensure all sides of the tree receive equal sunlight. Lastly, avoid leaving fruits on the trees for too long as this will reduce the tree’s ability to produce sweet fruits.
Provide Adequate Sunlight for Sweet Fruits
While lemon trees grown in pots can’t survive in full-sun, they do need plenty of light to produce sweet fruits. Aim to place the pot near a south-facing window or in an area that gets 6-8 hours of direct sun per day. Move the pot around periodically to make sure all sides of the tree are getting ample sunlight. If the tree’s leaves start to yellow or wilt, move the pot to a brighter spot.
