On average, a lemon tree will produce anywhere from four to twelve lemons, depending on its size and type. The size of the lemons on a specific tree also depends on the age of the tree, the amount of light and water it receives, and the soil it’s planted in. Most productive lemon trees are typically three to five years old and produce lemons that can be up to 2.5 inches in diameter.
Although it is difficult to accurately measure how many lemons are on a tree at any given time, there is a way to estimate the number of lemons. First, count the number of flowers on the tree. Then, count the number of fruits that result from those flowers. Use that same ratio for the number of flowers and fruits on the rest of the tree to get an estimate.
Lemons on a tree also vary in size and shape. While some might be bigger than others, the average lemon is typically round and has a yellow color when ripe. Unripe lemons usually have a greenish, yellowish tint to them. When it comes to color, the lemon you pick off the tree may not necessarily be the same color as the one next to it.
The number of lemons produced by a single tree also varies by location. In colder climates, lemon trees typically produce fewer lemons while trees in warmer climates may produce larger lemons due to the higher temperatures. In some cases, the number of lemons produced by one tree can vary dramatically across nearby trees due to soil and air temperature differences.
The overall quality of the lemons is also dependent on the amount of care and attention given to the tree. Regular pruning, watering, and fertilizing will lead to more flowers and bigger, healthier lemons. Too much water or fertilizer can, however, lead to an overabundance of fruit and a decrease in the quality of each lemon.
Finally, the amount of time it takes for a lemon to ripen on the tree can vary based on climate and the variety of lemon being grown. The average lemon ripening time is usually anywhere from two to four months. Generally speaking, it is best to pick the lemons when they are still firm and a slight tinge of yellow is visible, as this is when they will contain the most flavor and vitamins.
Planting and Potting
If you’re looking to plant your own lemon tree and produce a good crop of lemons, there are certain factors to consider. A well-draining, acidic soil with at least 8-10 hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal for growing lemons, and it’s important to either find a pre-bought lemon tree or start a new one from seeds. The easiest way to start a new tree is to buy a nursery-grown tree and then gradually transition it to a larger pot or container.
Once the tree is in a pot, make sure to water it regularly and feed it a fertilizer designed for citrus plants. Over-watering will most likely lead to root rot, so be sure to check the soil with your finger before using any additional water. Additionally, a lemon tree will require periodic pruning or trimming in order to keep it in good health and produce larger lemons.
When it comes time to move the tree outside, choose a spot that gets a lot of sun and is protected from the wind. This will help keep the tree healthy and allow it to properly produce lemons. Additionally, some form of protection against pests and animals such as deer and birds may be necessary.
Once the tree is outside and has settled in, regular checks for pests, diseases and nutrient deficiencies should be done. If any of these issues are found, it is important to take quick action in order to preserve the overall health of the tree. Pruning will also be necessary to encourage better lemon production.
Harvesting
When it comes time to pick the lemons from your tree, it important to practice patience and wait for them to be fully ripe for maximum flavor. Ripe lemons will usually be larger and feature a yellow color as opposed to greenish yellows. If the skin is slightly soft to the touch, then that’s a sign that the fruit is ready to be picked. Lemons can be harvested by either gently twisting or cutting them off the tree.
After the lemons have been harvested, they can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks without losing their quality. However, if you want to make lemonade or other recipes, it’s best to use them immediately. In some cases, lemons picked from the tree may be ripe only in the middle and have a green tint near the stem. These lemons can be soaked in warm water to help ripen them and make them more desirable for consumption.
On the other hand, if you don’t intend to eat the lemons, then it’s best to not pick them at all. Leaving them on the tree helps with pollination, encourages new growth, and enhances the overall appearance of the tree. In this case, cutting a few for display purposes is usually okay as long as no more than 20 percent of the lemons are being removed.
Diseases & Pests
When growing and caring for a lemon tree, it’s important to remain vigilant and watch out for pests and diseases that can have a significant impact on the tree, fruits and overall yield. In general, citrus trees are quite resistant to diseases and pests, however, it is still possible for issues to occur if the tree is subject to various conditions and stressors. In this regard, it is important to be aware of the most common problems.
For diseases, citrus canker and citrus tristeza virus are the main threats. Citrus canker is caused by a bacterium or fungi and will cause lesions on the fruit and leaves. In some cases, the entire tree can become infected and will eventually die. Citrus tristeza virus meanwhile is spread by an aphid and causes the tree to lose its leaves and eventually die.
For pests, red spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, whiteflies, and scale are the primary ones to watch out for. These pests can cause leaf distortion, discoloration and wilts. Red spider mites in particular can be incredibly damaging and can lead to an eventual tree death if not treated on time. Fortunately, these pests can be removed with some basic home remedies including neem oil, insecticides and spraying the tree with soapy water.
General Care
Once the tree is established and it produces a good amount of lemons, it is important to give it the right amount of care to keep it healthy and productive. In this regard, fertilizing is a key factor to consider. Typically, you should apply an evenly balanced fertilizer a few times a year to provide the tree with the necessary nutrients and trace elements for good growth and fruit production.
Additionally, the soil should be checked periodically for water levels and quality. If the soil is saturated with water or drains too well, then the tree’s growth will be negatively impacted. As such, using a soil drainage system is strongly advised. Similarly, if the soil has become too compacted or hard, then it may be necessary to mix in some organic matter such as peat moss or mulch.
As mentioned above, pruning should also be done regularly. Pruning helps the tree stay healthy and will encourage new growth and the production of larger, healthier lemons. When pruning, it is important to make sure to not remove more than one-third of the overall canopy and to remove shoots and branches in moderation.
Lastly, pest control and disease prevention are also important aspects of caring for a lemon tree. Examine the tree regularly for any pests or diseases and take quick action in order to prevent any further issues. Additionally, you can use natural solutions such as neem oil or insecticidal soap to keep common garden pests at bay.
