The lemon tree is a hardy, sun-loving plant that can grow in many climates. But how many hours of sunlight does a lemon tree need to thrive? Lemons trees require full sun – ideally six to eight hours per day – to grow and produce abundant fruits. While it may be possible to grow a lemon tree successfully in less sun, the process may take longer and produce less fruit. Getting the right amount of sunlight is essential for the health and productivity of a lemon tree.
Most lemon trees are native to tropical and subtropical climates and require six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day, although some varieties may need more sun. If your tree is planted in a pot, move it outside to an area that gets consistent direct sunlight. In general, it is best to provide as much sun exposure as possible. If you are unable to provide six to eight hours of sunlight, you can use supplemental lighting to help increase the amount of sunlight the tree receives.
When selecting a location for your lemon tree, remember that the soil must be well-drained and protected from excessive wind. The more sun exposure the tree receives, the more it will benefit. If you live in a consistently warm area, your lemon tree may even appreciate afternoon shade or some wind protection.
If you are growing a lemon tree from seed, choose a container that is at least eight inches deep. Plant the lemon tree in soil that contains compost or other organic matter. Water and fertilize your lemon tree every two to three weeks, depending on the amount of sun exposure it is receiving.
Established lemon trees can survive with less than six hours of sunlight per day, but the plants may take longer to produce fruit and may produce fewer lemons. The fewer hours of sunlight the tree receives, the more important it is for you to water and fertilize regularly to help the tree reach its full potential.
Types of Lemons
Lemons come in different varieties. Some of the most popular lemon varieties are the Meyer Lemon, the Lisbon Lemon, and the Eureka Lemon. Each variety of lemon has its own unique characteristics when it comes to flavor and other properties. Additionally, some varieties are suited to particular climates and will require more or less sunlight to thrive.
Meyer lemons are a medium-sized lemon with a sweet-tart flavor. Meyer lemons generally require six to eight hours of sunlight per day and thrive in temperatures ranging from 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Lisbon lemon has a slightly acidic flavor and a yellow-green color. This variety is frost-tolerant and requires six to eight hours of sunlight per day.
Eureka lemons are the more common garden lemon, with a good balance of sweet and sour flavor. This variety grows best in temperatures ranging from 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and requires up to nine hours of sunlight per day.
Pruning Lemon Trees
Pruning is an important part of the care and maintenance of a lemon tree. Prune your tree early in its development to promote growth and fruiting. Make sure that the tree is pruned regularly throughout the season to promote healthy fruit production by removing damaged or dead branches and maintaining symmetrical growth.
When pruning, be sure to use sharp pruners, and make your cuts at an angle to prevent water trapping at the wound sites. Begin by removing any dead or diseased material, and then remove branches that cross or rub against one another. Be sure to leave enough canopy so that your lemon tree receives the full amount of sunlight it needs.
Fertilizing Lemon Trees
While lemon trees do not necessarily need fertilizer to grow, they can benefit from occasional applications. As with pruning, the key to successful fertilizer use is to start early in the tree’s life and to fertilize regularly throughout the season.
Fertilizers come in different forms, but the important thing is to select one that is specifically meant for citrus trees. This type of fertilizer contains nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and other micro-nutrients that help promote the healthy growth of your lemon tree.
When applying your fertilizer, make sure to do so in moderation and to follow the directions on the packaging. Follow up the fertilizer application with deep watering, as this will help the fertilizer penetrate and be absorbed by the roots for optimal growth.
Protecting Lemon Trees from Pests
Lemon trees can be affected by several common pests, such as aphids, mealybugs, and scale. To prevent pests from taking up residence in your tree, it is important to keep your garden weeds-free and to regularly inspect the leaves and branches of your lemon tree.
If you do notice any infestation, act quickly by using a pesticide specially formulated for the pest. Start by treating the most heavily infested branches and move to less infested areas, eventually treating the entire tree. Make sure to follow all label instructions and be sure to wear protective clothing when using any pesticide.
Harvesting Lemon Trees
It is important to select the right time to harvest your lemon tree. For the most flavor, wait until the lemons are completely ripe. At this stage, the fruits should be yellow or even slightly orange in color, with a fragrant aroma that intensifies as you hold them.
Harvest your lemons by hand and be sure to wear thick gloves when doing so. Avoid picking green lemons or those with any signs of rot. Rinse off your lemons with water before you eat or enjoy them in your recipes.
Caring for Your Lemon Tree
To keep your lemon tree healthy, inspect it regularly for signs of disease and pests. If any problems arise, contact a professional arborist to determine the best course of action.
Lemon trees also require regular watering, especially if they are not getting the full six to eight hours of sunlight per day. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause your lemon tree to become diseased.
Lastly, maintain good airflow around the tree by having it planted in an open area rather than against a wall or fence. Proper airflow helps to discourage pest infestations, including diseases that can make your lemon tree sick.
