Meyer lemon trees are known for their hardy yet attractive growth. These citrus plants can reach heights of up to 20 feet, providing plenty of shade, decoration and fruit. It’s a popular choice among homeowners, due to its various characteristics and enjoyable fresh fruit.
The general shape of a mature meyer lemon tree is conical, and they have slender trunks that can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. The branches are strong and will often bend with heavy fruit. The trees produce large, evergreen leaves that are glossy and fragrant, giving the tree its cosmetic importance.
Aside from its height, meyer lemon trees are drought-tolerant, require little-to-no pruning and are resistant to most diseases and pests. It also produces abundant and juicy fruit that has great culinary and medicinal potential. The size of the fruit can range from small to medium, and the yellow-orange Meyer lemon has a mild, sweet flavor.
To produce fruit, meyer lemon trees need plenty of sun and water, as well as well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. It does best in warm climates and desires a sunny position in moist acidic soil. The tree also needs frequent fertilizing to ensure its best growth and regular pruning to keep it in shape.
Meyer lemon trees can be increased in size if pruned correctly or propagated from cuttings. When pruned, make sure to remove any dead, diseased or weak branches by cutting them close to their base. It’s also recommended to clean up decaying fruit and debris, and to keep an eye on heights, width and gusty winds.
Meyer lemon trees can add a unique touch to any home or garden with its evergreen leaves and incredible health benefits. It’s also easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance, making it a great choice for aspiring gardeners and citrus enthusiasts.
All in all, meyer lemon trees can reach heights of up to 20 feet. They require little-to-no pruning, resist pests and diseases, and produce abundant sweet fruit. With proper care and attention, these citrus plants can become an attractive addition to any home or garden.
Propagation
Meyer lemon trees can be increased in size, but propagation is also an option if you want baby citrus trees. The most straightforward way to propagate a Meyer lemon tree is to buy lemon tree shoots from your local gardening store or online. You’ll also need sterile potting soil, a container, appropriate light and water.
Once you’ve obtained the lemon tree shoots, place them in the soil and gently cover them up with a little bit of potting soil. Place the container in bright and sunny spot, like a windowsill or the outdoors, and water it sparingly. Do so every once in a while, as too much water can cause the cuttings to rot.
Maintaining optimal temperatures is important when propagating meyer lemon trees. Anything lower than 55°F or 13°C won’t work, but temperatures higher than 80°F or 26°C can also be damaging. Pay attention to the leaves and ensure they don’t become burned or shriveled.
Once your meyer lemon tree has become established, it’s recommended to transplant it and give it more space to grow. Choose a sunny and sheltered spot in the garden and provide the tree with the appropriate soil and nourishment.
It’s also possible to increase the size of your meyer lemon tree through grafting. This process requires a mature lemon tree with a strong trunk and root stock as well as a scion, which is a twig of a desirable lemon variety. The scion is carefully cut and inserted into the cut, so the two sections eventually fuse together.
Fertilizing and Pruning
Fertilizing and pruning are two important strategies to keep a meyer lemon tree healthy and producing. When fertilizing, make sure to use an appropriate citrus fertilizer that provides nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium to the tree. Apply the fertilizer in small doses a few times a year, as over-fertilizing can cause damage to the tree.
When it comes to pruning, make sure to remove any dead, diseased or weak branches by cutting them close to the base. It’s also essential to clean up decaying fruit and debris, and to keep an eye on trees’ heights. If it grows too tall, it can become susceptible to gusty winds and can cause damage to the tree.
Aside from pruning away dead or diseased branches, it’s somewhat important to shape the tree. This helps give the tree a greater physical structure and allows for systemic airflow and light penetration. With that being said, don’t prune too much as you may end up silencing the meyer lemon’s production.
Finally, always clean your pruning tools before using them on another tree or plant. This helps prevent the spread of diseases and pathogens that may damage the tree.
Fruit Harvest
Meyer lemon trees are self-fertile, meaning they don’t require multiple trees to produce fruit. When the fruits ripen, they tend to change color, becoming yellow-orange. If you’re looking to harvest enough to suit your needs, do so as early as possible as the fruits are high in antioxidants when picked early.
When harvesting, gently twist or pull the lemon from the tree. Don’t forget to wear gloves if you’re allergic to citrus, as the skin may cause a reaction. Also, be sure to check for any signs of pests or diseases, as this can spread throughout the tree if not treated with special care.
Once you’ve harvested the fruits, don’t wash them right away, as this may harm the beneficial antioxidants. Place the fruits in the refrigerator and wait until you’re ready to consume them before washing. Also, it’s essential to pick the fruits before they become overripe, as they may have a sour taste.
Aside from consuming the fruits, meyer lemons are often used to make jam, jelly and other desserts. The peels and rinds can also be used in culinary dishes, like candied fruits and lemon zest. Try experimenting with meyer lemons and see what recipes you can come up with.
Pests and Diseases
Meyer lemon trees are relatively resistant to most pests and diseases, as long as you provide it with proper care and attention. However, it’s always important to keep an eye out for inte… Possible common pests or diseases that may affect your meyer lemon tree include: citrus cane borers, canker disease, honeydew scale, vine weevils and aphids.
If you notice any of these signs, take immediate action by spraying it down with water or applying an insecticidal spray. Bacillus thuringiensis, an organic bacterium, is an effective and safe solution for getting rid of aphids, mites and caterpillars.
Fungal diseases, like powdery and downy mildew, can affect a meyer lemon tree if the conditions are right. Always keep an eye out for signs of fungal growth, and act quickly and diligently to keep fungal infections in check. Common solutions include copper-based fungicides, horticultural oil or a solution of potassium bicarbonate.
Always consult your local nursery for additional advice, as succumbing to common pests and diseases can damage a meyer lemon tree beyond repair. Taking the proper steps to keep your tree healthy and safe is the best way to ensure more fruits in the future.
Winter Considerations
Providing protection against colder temperatures is essential if you live in an area with harsh winters. Meyer lemons prefer warmer climates, and even one or two nights of freezing weather can damage or kill the tree. You may consider covering the tree with protective fabric to prevent frostbite. Make sure to provide it with plenty of sunlight and water.
If the tree’s roots are frozen, the tree may stop producing lemons for that season. If the roots are damaged beyond repair, the lemon tree can die or become severely weakened. To avoid this, it’s important to consider a rootstock that’s better able to withstand cold temperatures.
During the winter season, make sure to monitor the tree’s fertilizer levels. Adding organic compost or nitrogen-rich fertilizer around the tree’s base can help create a protective layer against the cold. However, too much fertilizer can cause the tree to become burned, so be cautious when doing so.
Lastly, mulching can help protect the tree against extreme temperatures. This involves adding a layer of organic matter around the tree’s base. Doing so can help lock in heat and nutrients, and will also prevent weed growth due to the barrier it creates.
