For those living in Arizona, growing a lemon tree in the home garden can be a rewarding and attractive addition. Though some might assume that it’s beyond their capabilities, it’s actually possible for anyone to successfully grow a lemon tree in Arizona with the right planting supplies, soil and growing conditions.
The first step in growing citrus plants, such as lemons, is to scout a suitable spot in your garden. The best location should provide the tree with plenty of light and good air circulation. It should also be far enough away from other plants so that they won’t interfere with one another.
After you’ve found the ideal spot, you’ll need to purchase a lemon tree sapling or nursery stock. If purchasing bare-root citrus, be sure to purchase them as soon as possible, keeping in mind that temperatures must be at least 45°F or higher. Remember to read instructions on the variety of lemon tree sapling you purchase beforehand, as some citrus varieties are not well-suited to the Arizona climate.
To plant your lemon sapling, you’ll need to create a soil mixture of soil, perlite, and manure. Then, dig a hole deeper and wider than the root ball of the container and fill it with the soil mixture mentioned prior. After planting the sapling, you’ll need to mound the soil at the base of the tree and soak the soil thoroughly.
To maintain your lemon tree’s health, you’ll need to water it regularly, removing any visible weeds and making sure to trim away dead or crossing branches. It’s also important to regularly feed your lemon tree fertilizer with a high nitrogen content. During the growing season, feed the tree every two to four weeks.
Lastly, it’s important to cover the lemon tree with a thin layer of mulch around the base, soil and bark. Mulch helps to keep the soil moist, while preventing weed growth. Additionally, pruning is also necessary to allow for better air circulation and to help the tree produce more flowers and fruit.
Growing Lemon Trees in Containers
Growing lemon trees in containers can also be a great option for those living in Arizona, especially if planting in-ground isn’t possible. The biggest consideration is the size of the container, as lemon trees can grow quite large. A container that’s 15-17 inches in diameter is the minimum size one should use. It’s also important the container has plenty of holes to allow for water to drain properly.
The soil mixture should also remain the same, but be aware that containers dry out more quickly than outdoor soil and you may need to water it multiple times a week. You should also add a small amount of fertilizer on a monthly basis. If the pot is outdoors, the tree will also need to be covered with a frost cloth during winter months to keep it warm and prevent extreme temperatures.
Common Mistakes
It’s easy to make mistakes when growing a lemon tree, so it’s important to research best growing practices and take preventative steps to ensure the health of your plant. Some common mistakes include planting in overly acidic soil, watering too frequently and not fertilizing enough. It’s also important not to overprune the tree and not to place it too close to other trees and plants, as this can inhibit air circulation.
Common Diseases, Pests, and Conditions
Like all citrus trees, lemon trees are vulnerable to disease and pests. The most common pest of lemon trees is the citrus whitefly, which can be a destructive pest in Arizona. The insect feeds on the juices of the fruit and leaves, causing leaves to yellow and drop prematurely.
Other common problems of citrus trees are fungus and blight. Citrus blight is a bacterial infection that can cause yellow spots to form on the leaves and fruit, with lesions appearing on the twigs. Fungal infections such as scab and rust can also cause discoloration and lesions on the leaves and fruit of the lemon tree.
Take preventive steps to ensure the health of your lemon tree by regularly pruning away dead or diseased branches, scouting for pests, and treating the tree with pesticide or fungicide if necessary.
Harvesting and Usage of Lemons
It may take a few years for a lemon tree planted from seed to produce fruit; however, if a seedling is purchased, it can produce fruit in as soon as several months. When the lemons reach a ripe yellow color, they’re ready to be plucked from the trees.
Lemons are a versatile fruit and can be used in a variety of recipes, drinks and crafts. They can be used in everything from sweet to savory dishes, cocktails, teas and iced beverages, or even for cleaning and deodorizing. Lemon peels can also be turned into fragrant potpourris and can be used to make citronella candles.
Caring for Your Lemon Tree in Winter
In the winter months, it’s important to care for your citrus trees by providing them with adequate water, fertilizer and temperature control. During winter in Arizona, temperatures can plunge below freezing, so it’s important to provide frost protection for trees that are outdoors. Protecting the tree with frost cloths, providing adequate space between other plants and keeping the tree well-watered is key to ensuring its health over the cooler months.
Additionally, once the temperature reaches below 45°F, it’s important to stop fertilizing your lemon trees to avoid stressing out the plant. If the tree is planted in a pot, it can also be moved indoors to protect from the cold and prevent frost damage.
Pruning for Improved Fruiting
Prune trees to remove overcrowding and dead branches and to shape the tree’s canopy. This encourages the tree to produce more citrus fruit. When pruning, always make sure to keep an open center with an even canopy. The tree should also be pruned in the late winter when the tree has gone dormant.
To get the most out of your lemon tree, prune the branches on the northern and western sides of the tree to allow more direct sunlight to reach the fruit and foliage. Additionally, regularly trim away any crossing or diseased branches to help the tree grow and produce more fruit.
Soil Requirements
When it comes to lemon tree soil requirements, it’s important to use a mixture of soil, perlite, and manure when planting your tree. This soil mixture helps provide drainage and aeration so that the root system of your tree can absorb as many nutrients as possible. It’s also important that you check your soil for acidity levels, as lemon trees thrive in slightly acidic soil and will not perform well in overly acidic soils.
It’s also important to monitor the water content in the soil and replenish the moisture if necessary. A soil moisture meter can be helpful in determining the moisture content of the soil. Too much water can lead to root rot, while too little water can stunt the growth and health of your lemon tree.