The Meyer Lemon Tree is a popular indoor citrus fruit tree that is easy to care for. With proper attention, the tree will produce juicy fruits for many generations. Below is a guide to caring for a Meyer Lemon Tree indoors.
Location is key. Your Meyer Lemon Tree should be placed near an east-facing or southeast-facing window, as it will need a lot of light. Avoid placing it too close to a heating vent or a cold draft, as the tree can suffer from large temperature swings. The tree should also be far enough away from the window to avoid direct sun.
Water religiously. Keeping the soil damp is important for your Meyer Lemon Tree to thrive. Let the soil dry between watering and avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilize as needed. A citrus fertilizer should be used every 6 to 8 weeks. This will provide the tree with all the essential nutrients it needs. Avoid using too much fertilizer and follow the instructions on the package for proper doses.
Prune regularly. To keep your tree in the optimal shape, trim off the dead leaves and branches throughout the year. Doing so will help keep the tree looking its best and will encourage more flowers for a potential fruit harvest.
Watch out for pests. Common pests include scale insects, whiteflies, and mealybugs. An organic pesticide or insecticidal soap will help keep these pests away. Be sure to carefully follow all safety precautions on the pesticide package.
Be patient. Meyer Lemon Trees take time to bear fruit. You should start to see them form within three or four years. Be sure to take good care of the tree, as this will help it produce delicious fruit.
Fertilization & Pruning
Fertilization is key for a Meyer Lemon Tree. Proper fertilization will encourage more flowers and fruit production. An organic fertilizer should be applied every 6-8 weeks following the instructions based on the size of the tree. The fertilizer should be applied uniformly around the tree, keeping the granules evenly distributed and away from the tree trunk. Pruning is also essential for maintaining the optimal shape of your tree. Prune off any dead leaves and branches, and use protective gloves to handle sharp pruning tools. When the tree is young, pruning off suckers will help it grow in the desired shape.
Pest Protection
Pests can be a nuisance on Meyer Lemon Trees, and they can cause damage if not addressed quickly. Common pests to watch out for include mealybugs, scale insects, and whiteflies. An organic pesticide or insecticidal soap can be used to keep pests away. Be sure to read all safety instructions that come with the pesticide and follow proper application guidelines.
Propagation
Propagating a Meyer Lemon Tree can be done in several ways. It can be propagated from cuttings, where a branch from the tree is removed and planted separately in soil. Grafting, where a branch from another citrus tree is grafted onto a Meyer Lemon Tree, is another popular method of propagation. It is important to ensure the branch is grafted accurately for successful propagation.
Harvesting Time
Meyer lemon trees require time to bear fruit, typically three or four years. The fruits should be picked when they are slightly soft and yellow, as they can quickly become too soft and unpleasant. Fruits can be harvested as they ripen during the winter and spring months.
Storing Meyer Lemons
Meyer Lemons can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks, or in the refrigerator for two to three months. It is best to keep them in an airtight container or bag to prevent them from drying out. Lemons can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to six months.
