Growing a dwarf lemon tree indoors is a rewarding experience that can be enjoyed by anyone. Here are the essential steps for success in cultivating your own citrus tree indoors. First, it is important to understand the condition needs in order for the tree to thrive. Lemons need adequate light, nutrient-rich soil, and regular watering. Second, you must pick the right variety of lemon tree. Dwarf varieties, such as ‘Little Sweet’ or ‘Improved Meyer’, are the best selection for container growing. Third, choose the right container. The container should be large enough to contain the tree’s root system and have good drainage. Fourth, prepare your potting mix. Most citrus likes slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 6-7, so it is important to use a lemon tree potting mix or create your own with a combination of peat moss, perlite, and compost. Fifth, provide the right environment. Lemons prefer temperatures between 50-75 degrees and abundant sunlight, so it’s best to place the container in an area with bright sun or that is ideally in an enclosed space like a sunroom. Sixth, fertilize regularly. Lemons like a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or a citrus-specific fertilizer that includes micronutrients. Fertilizer should be given every mimimum of once a month, or maybe more frequently depending on the condition of the tree and the potting mix. Lastly, water adequately. Lemons like regular, even watering. Moist, not wet soil is ideal, so check the moisture level often and adjust accordingly.
I. Pruning
Pruning a citrus tree is an important step in encouraging optimal growth. Pruning can help to keep the tree within a desired size and also help to keep air circulation throughout the plant. Start with removing any dead or broken branches and then cut back any branches that seem to be blocking the light from getting to the inner parts of the tree. Always use a sharp pruner and make sure to remove the full branch back to the trunk of the tree. Additionally, the lemons themselves should be pruned in the fall by removing the entire stem or branch with the lemon.
II. Pollination
Pollination is essential for lemons to set and also helps to promote stronger and healthier fruit. Most lemon tree varieties are self-pollinating, however, hand pollination is encouraged in order to achieve best results. To pollinate, lightly rub a small, dry brush on a lemon flower and then do the same with another flower. Doing this will move the pollen from one flower to the other. Interestingly, pollination is also important for stimulating growth and can help to further strengthen the citrus tree.
III. Pest Control
There are a few common pests to watch out for when growing citrus indoors. Spider mites commonly affect citrus trees particularly during the winter months when the air is dry. To help prevent spider mites, make sure to provide the appropriate amount of humidity and to regularly wipe down the leaves of the tree with a damp cloth. Additionally, mealybugs and scale can also affect citrus plants but can be treated with homemade remedies like diluted alcohol or a combination of soap and water.
IV. Repotting
Repotting citrus trees should be done every 3-4 years or when the roots begin to protrude out of the drainage holes of the pot. Citrus trees can benefit from being up-potted every couple of years to ensure enough room for healthy root growth and avoiding the complications of root-bounding. When repotting, make sure to use a slightly larger pot and fresh, quality citrus potting mix. Additionally, try to prune back some of the root system as this can help to encourage healthy and robust root growth.
