Growing a lemon tree from branch is not only a creative way to have fresh lemons, but it is also an excellent way to save money since you won’t need to purchase a lemon tree. Moreover, it is not as hard as you may think. Here are some useful tips to help you grow a lemon tree from branch.
Firstly, start with a good seedling. It must be healthy and, if you can afford it, buy one from a nursery. Citrus seedlings are particularly vulnerable to various diseases and pests so it’s best to ensure they are healthy when you buy them.
Secondly, take some cuttings off the seedling, including buds. Be sure to use a sharp knife so you can cleanly separate the cutting. Place the cuttings in a glass bottle and add some water. Place the bottle in a sunny spot and keep the water level consistent.
Thirdly, you need to transplant the cuttings. To do this remove the leaves from the cutting and place it in the soil, keeping the bud above the soil. Water the soil liberally and pack it down gently to ensure the cutting is secure.
Fourthly, lemon trees require regular trickle irrigation. Make sure the soil stays damp throughout the day. However, overwatering can cause rot so be sure to adjust the water frequencies accordingly.
Fifthly, fertilize the soil using organic matter such as compost. Fertilizing will help the tree grow strong and stay healthy.
Lastly, protect your tree from pests and diseases by covering it with a protective net. This will prevent birds and other pests from attacking the leaves and buds.
Sunlight
Lemon trees need lots of sunlight to flourish. Ensure the tree is placed in an area where it will get at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Additionally, to help it absorb more light, trim the branches regularly.
Moreover, lemon trees are sensitive to cold so be sure to provide shade during the winter months. Placing the tree in a sheltered area such as a balcony can protect the lemon tree from frost and wind damage.
Finally, if your garden does not get enough sunlight, you can invest in grow lights. These are designed to replicate the sunlight and make even shaded outdoor areas suitable for lemon tree growth.
Pruning and Training
To keep your lemon tree healthy, pruning is necessary. Do this when the tree has become overgrown, or when any dead or diseased branches are spotted.
Remember to prune the tips often, as this will help the tree to produce more fruits and flowers. Also, make sure to use a clean scissors or shears, to prevent spreading any diseases.
Additionally, training the lemon tree can help to increase the health and productivity of the tree. For example, training the branches to grow vertically can help the tree get more sunlight and air circulation.
Further, some trees may be too large to prune. In this case, you can use wires and trellises to help keep the trees in shape. This will also help to provide adequate support for the branches and fruits.
Water Requirements
Lemon trees need plenty of water to do well. They should be watered at least twice a week, and more during the hotter months.
When watering the lemon tree, use a watering can or a garden hose to make sure the soil is saturated. Do not use sprinklers as this can create problems with pests and diseases.
Also, remember to check the soil around the lemon tree regularly for moisture content. If the soil is dry, water more frequently.
Lastly, do not over water the lemon tree. Too much water can cause root rot, and the fruits may not get enough nutrients if the tree is standing in water.
Fertilization
For healthy growth of the lemon tree, fertilizing is important. This can be done by applying an organic fertilizer, manure or compost every few weeks.
The best time to fertilize is during the winter months when the tree is dormant. Avoid fertilizing during the summer months, as this can burn the roots of the tree.
When using fertilizer, make sure to follow the instructions on the package. Overdoing it can lead to burning of the soil and roots.
Also, the fertilizer should be applied to the soil around the base of the tree. Avoid spreading the fertilizer directly on the foliage of the tree, as this can cause leaf damage.
Harvesting the Lemons
When the time comes to harvest your lemons, the best time is in the morning or evening. Do not pick the fruits during the hot afternoon as this can cause them to prematurely ripen.
Also, don’t leave the lemons on the tree for too long as they can become too ripe and sour. Cut the stems of the lemon off with a pair of garden scissors, taking care not to tear or damage the stem.
Lastly, you can use a ladder to reach the highest fruit of the tree. However, make sure to use it properly and be careful not to damage the branches or leaves of the tree.
