Oregon gardeners who are looking to add a bit of zest to their outdoor space are in luck – growing a lemon tree in Oregon is a piece of cake, especially when following the right planting and pruning techniques. Here’s how to get started:
First, select a suitable spot for your lemon tree. The area should be free from disease-causing bacteria, as well as pests, and should be able to receive at least 6 hours of direct sun each day. Picked lemon trees do best on well-draining, fertile soil, so you’ll want to ensure the area has ample to give.
Once the location has been selected, it’s time to prepare the soil. Amend clay soils with compost or peat moss, and add a slow-release fertilizer to sandy soils if necessary. When planting, space the lemon tree at least eight feet apart from other trees and shrubs.
Water the planted tree regularly, and mulch to retain moisture at the base of the tree. If needed, use a tomato cage or stake to keep your newly planted tree upright.
Pruning your lemon tree is a critical step in its growth. Remove dead and diseased branches, and prune away any branches that are cross-growing or that don’t match the shape of the tree. Prune back the top of the tree yearly for the first two or three years to work toward a mature shape.
Harvesting your lemons, when the time comes, is straightforward. Pick your fruit when it is bright yellow and plump, but also firm. Make sure you give the branch a gentle twist or pull, so that the fruit comes away easily.
Finally, lemon trees need proper care and attention to yield bumper crops. Feed during the spring and summer months with a balanced fertilizer high in nitrogen. Lastly, spread a layer of organic compost around the root system to help replenish the nutrients.
Helping New Tree Grow
Environmental conditions are key to helping a new lemon tree thrive. The area should be well ventilated and receive 8 – 10 hours of direct sunlight a day. As with all fruit trees, lemon trees are susceptible to frost, so picking an area that receives enough sun and is away from cooler wind can significantly improve its chances of survival.
When planting lemon trees, make sure the root system is thoroughly soaked before the Tree is put in the ground. The soil should remain moist for several weeks after planting until the roots are established. To ensure the roots get plenty of airflow, plant a mound of several inches of organic soil in the centre of the hole.
During the first two or three years of new growth, lemon trees need to be pruned. Pruning helps to correct the shape and remove any branches that are too tall, weak or crossing over each other. The first few years of growth are crucial in forming the lemon tree’s structure, so remember to cut away any dead wood, crossing branches, and any branches that are too long. Pruning the tree during the winter months is the best timeframe to reduce any damage the tree may incur.
Lemon trees need sufficient water for optimum growth. Soak the roots and trunk a few times a week, depending on weather conditions. However, be careful not to overwater, as this may lead to root rot. Spread about 3 inches of organic mulch around the base of the tree to retain water and discourage weeds.
Fertilizing should be done during the spring and summer months, when the tree is actively producing fruit. Consider using a slow release fertilizer to help the tree grow faster, and reduce the need for additional feedings. When the fruits begin to form, supplement the fertilizer with natural resources such as compost, worm castings, and seaweed extract.
Pests & Disease Prevention
As with any fruit tree, pest and diseases are a common issue. Fortunately, lemon trees are not overly susceptible to disease, but they can be affected by pests such as scale insects, aphids, and mites, as well as parasitic nematodes and fungal diseases.
To ward off pests and diseases, one of the best things to do is to maintain the lemon tree’s health. This includes keeping the area free from weeds, four to six inches of organic mulch on the soil surface, regular pruning of dead, diseased or overcrowded branches, and proper pruning and feeding during key parts of the year.
If diseases or pests occur, consider using natural methods such as neem oil to help combat them. Additionally, avoid wetting the foliage and quickly remove any leaf litter. Pruning away any disease-causing bacteria or pests is also crucial.
For fungus, avoid over-watering and cultivate air-circulation around the trees. If necessary, consider using a mixture of one teaspoon of baking soda and one gallon of water to neutralize the fungus.
Watching the tree carefully and acting with necessary measures can help ward off disease and pests, and get your lemon tree back on track.
Harvesting & Storing Lemons
When your lemon tree starts to bear fruits, it’s time to reap the rewards of your hard work! Most lemon varieties are ready to be harvested from late spring to early fall, but the exact timeline will depend on the variety. To determine whether or not a lemon has ripened, give the rind a gentle squeeze and look for any yellowing.
Once ripe, a lemon can be picked from the tree. Make sure to give the stem a twist, or pull it gently so it doesn’t fall off in your hand. Place the lemon in a basket or container and avoid squeezing it. Store the lemon in a cool, dry place or the refrigerator. Lemons can last up to two weeks when stored in the refrigerator properly.
It’s also possible to freeze lemon juice and zest. Squeeze the lemon juice into an ice cube tray, and place it in the freezer until it sets. Once solid, transfer the cubes into a ziplock bag. To freeze the zest, simply grate the lemon and place it in a freezer bag. When thawed, the lemon juice and zest can be used in a variety of recipes.
Growing Tips
When selecting a lemon tree for an Oregon garden, it’s important to choose a variety that is suitable for the local climate. The ‘Bearss’ or ‘Eureka’ varieties are known to be cold weather-tolerant, and are an ideal choice for gardeners in cooler parts of the U.S.
In terms of soil quality, ensure that the soil has a 6 to 8 pH level, and is free from too much clay. A mixture of quality-rich compost and peat moss can help to improve a lemon tree’s soil quality. Furthermore, add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil to help it mature and bloom.
Don’t forget to prune and shape your trees, as this is essential for their health and yield. Prune away any branches that are crossing over each other and remove dead wood. When choosing pruning tools, go for sharp and clean instruments.
To ensure an adequate amount of water but also allow for proper drainage, avoid direct contact with the trunk and stem, and water an area about two feet away from the tree. To retain some moisture in the soil, spread about four inches of quality-rich organic compost around the base of the tree.
Common Problems & Solutions
Many issues with growing a lemon tree can be easily solved. The most common issue, though, stems from a lack of drainage. Poor drainage can cause moisture to build up at the base and trunk of the tree and promote root rot, a deadly fungal disease. To prevent root rot, ensure the soil mix is well-draining and incorporates peat moss, sand, and/or coarse gravel.
Additionally, lemon trees tend to drop fruit prematurely. This most often occurs due to the sudden changes in climate or too much stress. Keeping the tree away from extreme temperatures or too much pruning will help to reduce the risk of premature fruit drop.
Another problem is pest and disease damage. These issues can often be mitigated by creating an environment that is hostile for pests and diseases. Ensure that the trees have adequate air-circulation and choose trees that are tolerant to the local climate. Spraying neem oil in the spring and summer can help ward off pests.
Various nutrient deficiencies can also affect the health of lemon trees. For example, iron deficiency can cause yellowing of the leaves. To help with this issue, use iron sulfate on the base of the tree and around the roots. Additionally, zinc deficiencies will cause the leaves to curl, so consider using zinc sulfate or a controlled release fertilizer.
