Lemons have long been a staple of kitchens, thanks to the versatile range of uses the citrus fruits can be put to, from juice to zest, to flavoring everything from fish to desserts. But it takes some time for a lemon to grow from a tiny bud to a bright lemon on the tree, and it’s crucial to know how long lemons take to ripen.
On average, lemons can take around six months to ripen fully, or two to three months for the tree to reach maturity and start producing fruit. This can, however, vary greatly depending on the tree, the climate and other environmental factors, meaning that some trees may take longer or less time to yield a crop of lemons. To get the most out of lemons trees, it is a good practice to groom and prune them regularly, to ensure maximum growth and better and larger yields.
In terms of when to harvest lemons, there are some indicators that may help. Generally, the lemons should have a full green color, have a thin skin, and contain plenty of juice. Additionally, they should smell tart and be somewhat firm to the touch. Lemons are also more flavorful when they are harvested while still green, rather than waiting for them to ripen.
Interestingly, when left on the tree, lemons can ripen for an extended period of time. Some lemon varieties, such as the Lisbon or the Lisbon-Lemon can stay on the tree for several months after the tree has stopped producing, developing a thicker skin and sweeter flavor. In this case, the peak of harvest depends on the particular variety.
In some cases, lemons can also be harvested before they are fully ripe, as some of the flavor is already there. It is best practice to pick them when they are still bright green, although this will depend on the ultimate use of the lemons. If they are going to be used in desserts or baking, harvesting them when they are still green may be preferable.
In summary, lemons can take anywhere from two to six months to ripen on the tree, but that this varies greatly depending on the tree and other external factors. Knowing when and how to harvest them helps to maximize the tree’s yield and ensure the lemons are at their best when the time comes.
Controlling the Environment Affects Ripening
Just as there are slight variations between individual lemon trees in terms of how they grow and how long they take to mature, environmental factors can also have an impact. Salt in the absorption through the soil and in the water, for example, can have a very big influence on how quickly or slowly lemons ripen.
Heat and sunlight will also affect the ripening time – in warmer climates, bright sunlight can speed up growth and ripening, while in cooler climates it may cause the lemons to remain unripe for a longer period of time. Ripe lemons can also be stored in a cool place for a few weeks to slow the ripening process.
Varieties of lemons can also take different lengths of time to ripen – Meyer lemons, for example, may take several months longer to mature than the standard Lisbon or Eureka varieties. Knowing this and taking the variety of lemon into account when harvesting can be important in getting the piursest flavor and the optimal shelf life for the fruit.
In terms of determining when to harvest the lemons, there are a few indicators to look out for. If the lemons have waxed, fully green skins with juice seeping out when squeezed, they are likely ripe and ready for picking. These should also feel firm and have a slightly tart aroma to them.
Similarly, the size and color of the lemon can help. A bright yellow colour indicates a ripe lemon, while a dull yellow or green colour means they are unripe. If they do not yield immediately when squeezed, they are still maturing and need more time on the tree.
Harvesting and Storing Unripe Lemons
The harvesting of unripe lemons can also lead to improved yields. As mentioned previously, lemons may not be ripe when the tree itself stops mature and producing, and so harvesting them early can help to maximize the yield from the tree. It is important to check the lemons before harvesting, as some varieties may not become ripe even when left on the tree for a long time.
On the flipside, harvesting unripe lemons and storing them in a cool place can extend the ripening process, allowing for a longer shelf life. Some lemons, such as the Meyer variety, can take several months to ripen, and so this can be a useful way of prolonging their use.
The size of the lemon is also a factor when considering harvesting. Smaller lemons may not ripen to a desirable flavor on the tree, and so it may be better to harvest them before they get too big. On the other hand, larger lemons may end up too sweet and not have the desired tartness, making it preferable to wait until they are ripe.
These days, most lemons are sold at supermarkets, so it may not be necessary for someone to have their own lemon tree. However, for those who do, it is important to get an understanding of how long lemons take to mature on the tree, and what signs to look for when harvesting them, in order to get the best out of the crop.
Tools for Assisting with Ripening
In addition to regular pruning, feeding and providing water to the tree, there are a handful of tools available to assist with the process of ripening lemons on the tree. One of the oldest methods of controlling the ripening process is to use a string bag. This tool works by separating the lemon from the rest of the tree, allowing air to flow around it and encouraging the ripening process.
There are also other tools that can help with the ripening process, such as cloches, covers and sleeves. These items help to trap the sun’s heat and moisture around the lemon, allowing it to ripen in a more controlled atmosphere. Cloches and sleeves are especially useful in climates where temperatures drop drastically at night and during winter.
In conclusion, there are various factors that need to be taken into consideration when determining how long it takes for a lemon to ripen. Temperature, salt, and the variety of lemon all have an effect, and so knowing how to control them or utilize them can dramatically optimize how long it takes for lemons to mature. Further, there are a range of tools available to help with controlling the time it takes for lemons to fully ripen.
Health Benefits of Lemons
In addition to being a tasty ingredient to many dishes and meals, lemons also provide a number of health benefits. Lemons are high in vitamin C, and due to their acidic content, can help with digestion, cut down on inflammation, and reduce toothaches or pain caused by minor injuries.
Studies have also suggested that the antioxidant flavonoids found in lemons can help to prevent cancer and other related diseases. Lemons are especially good for those looking to improve their dietary intake, as they can make vegetables or salads more interesting and appealing, and improve the taste of plain dishes.
Far from being solely a kitchen staple, lemons can be used in a variety of household products, helping to naturally disinfect and deodorize. Lemons can also be used to make eco-friendly cleaning solutions, as the citric acid present in them is an effective cleaner and can break down fat and grease on surfaces.
Finally, lemons have been used in traditional medicines and home remedies for thousands of years. These range from treating arthritis and colds, to skin problems and digestive issues. Due to their antibacterial properties, lemons can be used to help fight off infections, as well as being ingested as a juice or added to a drink, to help keep the body healthy and in balance.
Conclusion
As can be seen from this article, lemons are far from being just a versatile kitchen ingredient, and can come in handy for a range of other uses. Knowing how to harvest lemons from the tree and when they are ripe can help ensure the best yields and the best flavor, while also providing the many other benefits that lemons can bring.
