The lemon tree is not only refereed to as one of the most beautiful trees, but also for its amazing fruit it bears. To ensure a successful harvest of lemons from the tree, there are a few key steps one must take. From proper soil content, to pruning and harvesting, this guide will cover the basic steps it takes to achieve a full lemon crop.
First off, one must make sure they have the right type of soil to plant the lemon tree in. Citrus trees, including lemons, prefer a certain soil content in order to thrive, and that includes a higher pH balance than most other trees. Additionally, one should mix in some organic materials and fertilizer to assist in the growth of the tree.
Once the soil is ready, it is important to buy a healthy, established lemon tree from a certified nursery. This tree should look healthy and have extensive foliage with a good amount of lemons on it when buying. Once the tree is in the ground and properly watered, it will be ready for pruning.
Pruning the tree is an important step for it to reach a healthy harvest. Pruning will help the tree to grow stronger and help any lemons that do not look healthy to be removed. Pruning the tree incorrectly can result in an unhealthy and unattractive looking tree, so one should always consult a professional before pruning.
Finally, when the time comes to harvest the lemons, one should pick the ripe ones with a gentle shake of the branch. The lemons should look and feel ripe, as any lemons that are still on the tree that are not ripe can wait until they are ready. Once the desired amount of lemons have been harvested, the tree should be taken care off with regular watering and pruning.
Fertilization and Insect Control
In order to ensure healthy lemon crop production, the lemon tree should be fertilized regularly. Lemon trees should be fertilized every three to four months, especially in the spring. Additionally, there are several insects that can be problematic for the lemon tree. To ensure the health of the tree and its lemons, proper insect control measures should be taken.
Common problems faced with lemon trees include citrus aphids, mites and thrips. These pests can cause the leaves to be discolored, curled and to drop off. They can also result in lemons that are no longer edible. To ensure the lemons are not overly infected, insect control measures can be taken such as insecticidal sprays and soap.
More aggressive insect control options include applying a systemic insecticide to the tree, or planting certain types of companion plants that can attract beneficial insects that help to control the population of pests.
Finally, one should also look for other signs of infestation such as discolored leaves or misshapen fruits. Any sign of infection should be dealt with immediately to prevent the spread of the infection to other areas of the tree.
Pollinating the Tree
The next step in ensuring a successful lemon crop is to ensure the lemon tree is well pollinated. Pollination is the process of transferring pollen from a flower’s male parts to its female parts. This process is what will result in the growth of the actual lemons on the tree.
The most common method of pollination for a lemon tree is through natural pollination from the wind, bees or other insects. Lemon trees that are not receiving enough natural pollination can be hand-pollinated using a small brush or cotton swab.
Lemon trees should be pollinated during the bloom cycle, which is usually in the spring. The best time to pollinate the tree is when the flowers have opened and the small, green fruits have begun to form. Pollinating during this time ensures that the tree will get enough pollen to grow the desired amount of lemons.
Lastly, it is important to note that if the seeds from the lemons are kept, no additional pollinating is required. The tree can reproduce itself and will still produce a yield of lemons.
Watering the Tree
Watering the tree is another key step in the caretaking process of a lemon tree. An adequate supply of water is necessary in order for the tree to thrive and produce a successful yield of lemons.
During the hot summer months, the tree should be watered weekly and during the cooler months, the tree should be watered bi-weekly. It is important to water deeply enough so that the roots can absorb the adequate amount of water they need to keep the tree healthy.
It is also important to note that the lemon tree should not be over watered. This can result in the roots being blocked by excessive amounts of water, causing the tree to become stunted and unhealthy.
Additionally, it is important to ensure the ground is properly drained. Water should be able to move through the soil quickly without any dangerous build-up that can damage the tree.
Lastly, mulching the tree can help to retain moisture and keep the roots cool. Mulch should not come in direct contact with the tree, however, and should be kept a few inches away from the tree trunk.
Pest Management
When caring for a lemon tree, it is important to be aware of various pests that can damage and kill the tree. As previously mentioned, citrus aphids, mites and thrips are just some of the pests that can affect the trees health.
In order to effectively protect the tree, certain measures need to be taken. Pruning the lemon tree regularly can help to keep it healthy and reduce the likelihood of pests. Additionally, maintaining the trees health and keeping the soil properly drained can prevent pests from taking hold on the tree.
If insect pests are still present, they should be taken care of immediately to ensure the health of the tree. Certain insecticides and weed-killers are available that can be sprayed onto the tree.
When using chemical insecticides or weed-killers, it is important to use the correct type and dosage in order to ensure maximum effectiveness against the pest. Additionally, they should be used carefully and sparingly as they can be hazardous if used incorrectly.
Finally, it is important to monitor the tree regularly for any signs of damage or pest infestations. If any of the aforementioned is present, measures should be taken immediately to ensure the tree does not suffer any further damage.
Pruning the Tree
Pruning is a critical step when it comes to ensuring a healthy and successful lemon harvest. Pruning helps to stimulate growth, as well as remove any unhealthy and unattractive looking lemons from the tree.
When it comes to lemon trees, it is best to prune them during the winter months when the tree is not actively growing. Pruning should only be done if necessary, and the tree should be pruned carefully and with the right tools to ensure no damage is caused.
When pruning, the dead and damaged branches should be removed, as well as any branches that are overcrowding the tree. This will help to increase air circulation and light to the inner parts of the tree and can help to improve the overall health of the tree.
Additionally, pruning the lemon tree will help to maintain the shape of the tree and can help to increase the number of lemons the tree can produce. Interior branches should also be pruned in order to help increase the amount of sunlight that can reach the interior of the tree.
Lastly, pruning can also help to control the size of the tree in order to keep it from growing too large. Pruning should always be done carefully and should be done by experienced professionals if possible.
