Growing a dwarf Meyer lemon tree is a rewarding experience, with some time and basic gardening knowledge it is possible to have a tree that reaps sweet rewards. A dwarf tree is a small version of full size lemon trees, and can be grown indoors or outdoors. The following steps will guide you through the process for a successful tree.
Firstly, planting the right kind of soil is essential. The soil and pot should complement one another. Purchasing soil with drainage and fertilizer will give the tree the best environment and provide the proper nutrients. Once the soil is ready, it is time to add the tree.
When adding the tree to the new environment, it is important to dig a hole just bigger than the root ball. Place the tree in the hole and then cover with soil, ensuring that the stem and roots are securely underneath. Finally, pat the soil down and water regularly.
The next step would be to find the perfect spot for the tree. Dwarf Meyer lemon trees do well in colder climates, so when planted outdoors in warm weather it should be put in partial shade to prevent over exposure to the hot sun. When located indoors, the tree should be placed near a window that gets a lot of light, but not direct light.
When the tree begins to mature, it will need regular fertilizer applications every month or two. Solid fertilizer, water-soluble fertilizer, fish emulsion, or compost tea can all be used. Proper pruning is also important to maintain the tree’s shape and make sure that it receives adequate sunlight. To prune, snip off any errant branches or limbs and prune too close to the main trunk to give the tree an attractive shape.
When following these steps, the tree will begin to produce fruit within a year of planting. It is important to pay attention to the fruit, as it will determine when the tree needs to be re-planted. When the fruit starts to hang low and begins to get soft, you will know it is time for a new home.
These steps will give you the foundation needed to successfully grow your own dwarf Meyer lemon tree. With proper care, you can enjoy the sweet rewards of your own tree for years to come.
Selection of Soil
When selecting soil for your new dwarf Meyer lemon tree, it is important to find one with adequate nutrition and drainage. Usually, a soil blend of potting blend, top soil, and compost will give the tree the best environment to thrive. It should not be too water-logged or too well-draining, so make sure that the soil has some moisture retention. When planting, place a layer of soil approximately one inch from the top of the pot, so that the tree can be removed easily for regular pruning sessions.
A pH balanced soil is also recommended for optimal growth. This means that the soil should have a neutral balanced pH, somewhere between 6.5 and 7.5, and be tested regularly to ensure that the pH is not too acidic or too alkaline. Be sure to add the appropriate amendments to balance out the pH, as this will affect the health of the tree.
Once you have found the right soil, it is also essential to use the right sized pot or container. The container should be slightly larger than the root ball, giving the tree plenty of room to grow. For an indoor tree, a good rule of thumb is to select a pot around 6 to 8 inches and for an outdoor tree, a pot of the size 10 to 12 inches should do the trick.
When selecting the right pot, it is essential to remember to provide the right drain holes and drainage channels. Dwarf Meyer lemon trees are especially sensitive to rotting, so be sure to fill the container with a clay-based soil and make sure that the water doesn’t stand in the pot for too long after watering.
Location and Lighting
Lighting is key in growing a successful dwarf Meyer lemon tree. When placed outdoors, the tree should be placed in an area that still receives some shade, so try and find a balance between full sunlight and shade. When indoors, make sure to place the tree in the brightest spot with access to natural sunlight from a window. Windows facing the east will give the tree the best lighting, but if that is not an option, then any window with plenty of light should do.
The location of the tree is also important to consider. Dwarf Meyer lemon trees are winter-hardy, meaning that they can tolerate cold temperatures and during the growing season, they should be able to survive temperatures to around 29°F (–3°C). When placed outdoors, try to plant in a spot where it will receive partial shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Season changes can also affect how much the tree gets watered, as the amount of water needed will decrease during the cooler winter months. So when selecting a spot to plant the tree, try and aim for one that will receive some protection from windy days and offer a well-draining location.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing is an important part of growing a dwarf Meyer lemon tree. This can be done organically or with a chemical solution, depending on your preference. For the organic method, adding compost, fish emulsion, or compost tea to the potting mix will provide needed nutrients for the tree to thrive. The chemical solution can be done with commercially-available natural fertilizers, as long as they are applied correctly.
Fertilizing should also be done regularly to maintain optimal health. Depending on the type of fertilizer being used, the frequency of fertilizing may vary but usually should be done every 1-2 months. When fertilizing, always consult the instructions on the fertilizer package to ensure that the amount being used is correct and that it is mixed in the soil properly.
When applying fertilizer, it is important to always use caution. Do not over fertilize the tree, as this can do more harm than good, leading to chemical burns and slow growth. Also, when watering the tree, avoid getting the fertilizer solution on the leaves and only apply to the root area.
Regular Watering
When caring for a dwarf Meyer lemon tree, regular watering is essential. Water needs will depend on how old the tree is and how much light it is receiving. As a general rule, a new tree will need to be watered weekly or when the topsoil is dry. This will help the tree establish roots quickly and give it the best chance of a plentiful first crop.
Once the tree begins to produce fruit, you may find that it needs more water than usual, as the production of the fruit can cause the tree to become dry. During the cooler months, it is important to continue to water the tree, as it still needs hydration even when less active. An easy way to measure the water needs is to place a finger into the soil and if it feels dry, then it is time to water.
When watering the tree, it is important to use tepid water and not let the tree sit in standing water for too long after watering. Too much water can cause the roots to become waterlogged and lead to root rot. When watering, water the root area the most and avoid wetting the leaves and fruit, as this can cause other issues.
Pruning
Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the shape of the tree and to encourage future growth. Pruning should be done lightly and with a sharp pair of clippers to ensure a clean cut. When pruning, remove errant branches or limbs and also prune close to the tree’s main trunk to give it an attractive shape.
Do not cut too much away at once, as this can hinder growth and be harmful to the health of the tree. Fruits themselves do not require pruning, however, if there is too much fruit on the tree, then it is recommended to thin the crop for future growth of the tree. This can be done by snipping off some of the fruits, being careful not to leave too many.
Pruning should be done at least every other month to keep the tree looking healthy and also to make sure that it is getting adequate sunlight. If there is too much foliage blocking the sun, it can cause the tree to become less healthy and it is possible that fruit will not grow.
Harvesting
Harvesting fruits is a rewarding experience and will require some patience. Fruits are typically ready to be harvested after 8-12 weeks of growth, depending on the variety of lemon tree. Once the fruits become fragrant and large in size, they can be picked. When picking, be sure to use a soft cloth or twist the fruits away from the tree to avoid damaging the stem.
Some fruits may stay on the tree for a few days, which could increase the sweetness by leaving them on the tree for a longer period of time. Once the fruits have been collected, ensure that they are used the same day or stored in a cool place until ready to use.
When harvesting, it is important to ensure that the fruits are ripe and ready. If picked too early, the fruits will be unusable and picking too late can cause the fruit to become overripe and bitter. Hence, it is important to pay attention to the ripening process and make sure that the fruit is picked at the right time.
These steps will help you reap the rewards of your own Meyer Lemon tree. With regular pruning, water, and the perfect environment, your tree should return a plentiful first harvest with plenty of sweet and juicy fruits.
