Lemon trees bear fruits usually once a year, but with the right care, you can make sure your tree manages to put out an abundant harvest for your enjoyment. Here are the steps you need to take for successful lemon fruiting.
Firstly, buy a lemon tree from a reputable dealer or nursery. If possible, purchase a tree that is already producing fruits, as these are more likely to bear your lemon bounty. Make sure you inspect the tree and its fruits for signs of disease or disease-resistant varieties.
Secondly, provide your tree with enough sun. Place it in a sunny spot, preferably somewhere where it can receive direct sunlight during the morning and in the afternoon. Make sure you check the shade and the temperature of the area to ensure that it isn’t too exposed to the sun’s rays.
Thirdly, pay attention to pruning. Trim the lemon tree regularly, focusing on removing damaged, dead or diseased branches to prevent them from spreading to the rest of the tree. Also, make sure you avoid over-pruning as it will reduce the tree’s fruiting potential. It may be beneficial to water the tree, but don’t overwater it as it will make it susceptible to disease.
Fourthly, fertilizing is essential. Apply a balanced fertilizer at regular intervals to ensure the tree has enough nutrients to grow and create fruits. Some of the common fertilizers you may use include compost and manure, soil amendments, and organic or inorganic fertilizers.
Fifthly, consider applying mulch. Mulch helps reduce weeds and will provide your lemon tree with nutrients as it breaks down. Additionally, it provides protection against over-watering by controlling the loss of moisture in the soil.
Finally, ensure you monitor your lemon tree’s condition. Watch out for any disease, pests or birds that could affect your planting. Some common offenders are aphids, moths, and birds. Also, be sure to check the leaves regularly to see if they are healthy and not wilting.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing is an important component in achieving successful fruiting in lemon trees. Once the tree is planted and adapted to its new environment, you should begin adding fertilizer. For best results, use an organic fertilizer or slow release fertilizer as they will provide a steady supply of nutrients to the tree and promote healthy growth.
If using a slow-release fertilizer, make sure to apply it once every four to six weeks. Alternatively, you can use a liquid fertilizer that’s applied directly to the tree’s roots. Keep in mind that it’s best to apply fertilizer during the growing season, as it will help the tree bear fruits at the right time.
It’s best to avoid over-fertilizing, as this will lead to more foliage growth and reduced fruiting potential. Be sure to follow the directions on the product label, and if it states that it should be applied every few weeks, stick to that. You can also add soil amendments like compost or manure to give your tree some extra boost.
Lastly, if you have any concerns about the condition of your tree, consider talking to a professional for advice on fertilizing.
Watering
Watering your lemon tree is equally important as fertilizing. Make sure you water your tree when the soil is dry and avoid over-watering, as this will make your tree susceptible to disease. Additionally, avoid wetting the tree’s foliage while watering, as this will promote the growth of fungus.
Generally, it’s best to water your tree two or three times a week. Depending on the climate, the amount of water you should give the tree may also vary. During the summer months, your tree may need more water, whereas in colder months, it will require less.
It may also be beneficial to add organic matter to your soil, as this will help retain moisture. Compost and manure are great options. You should also consider adding mulch to your soil, as this will help reduce weeds and will control the loss of moisture in the soil. If you have any concerns about the condition of your tree, consulting with a professional is recommended.
Pollination
Pollination is essential for lemon trees to bear fruits. Cross-pollination occurs when pollen from one plant is transferred to another, facilitating the assembly of seeds. If the tree is placed in an area where there is little or no insect activity, you will need to assist in the pollination process to ensure the tree will produce fruits.
One of the most effective ways to do this is to use a hand-held pollinating wand. Place the wand into the flower and tap the center gently to deposit some of the pollen. It can also help to gently blow the flowers, as this will help spread the pollen.
Additionally, you can encourage natural pollination by providing a conducive habitat for bees and other beneficial insects. Plant companion flowers and herbs near the tree, and make sure the area is free from natural or chemical pesticides. It would also help to install a bee house, creating a safe place for them to nest.
Lastly, you can use pollen suspension to improve pollination. This involves mixing pollen with water and spraying directly onto the flowers to give them a pollen boost. Doing this consistently will help you ensure a better harvest.
Pests
Pests can be a big problem in citrus trees and can lead to a reduced fruit yield. To protect your tree from these pests, it’s a good idea to regularly monitor for signs of infestation, as catching it early is essential in controlling the problem. Common offenders include aphids, moths, and thrips.
If you see any signs of infestation, there are a couple of control measures you can take. You can apply a natural pesticide, such as neem or pyrethrin, or use an insecticidal soap to treat the tree. However, these chemical treatments should be done in moderation, as over-application can damage the tree.
You can also introduce beneficial insects that act as natural predators. These include ladybugs and lacewings. If you want to go the organic route, you can use traps and sticky tape to lure insects away from the tree, or use horticultural oil to smother them.
Another great option is to install bird boxes in your garden, as birds are natural predators of pests. Finally, make sure you keep your tree healthy by providing it with the right nutrients, adequate sun and water, and regular pruning.
Harvesting
Once your lemon tree is in full bloom and you have seen the fruits begin to form, you can begin to harvest. To avoid damage to the branch, use a pair of garden scissors or secateurs to cut the fruits from the tree. Make sure to use a gentle sawing motion to avoid tearing the branch.
It’s best to collect the fruits when they are still a bit green and tart. This ensures that the vitamins and enzymes in the fruits are still intact. If you plan to store the lemons for later, make sure to only pick the ones that are blemish-free.
It’s also important to note that when harvesting lemons, you should not pull them off the tree as this can damage the branch. Additionally, make sure you check the fruits’ condition regularly, as over-ripe fruits can be a sign of disease or pests. Finally, remember to wear gloves when picking the lemons, as this will prevent your skin from getting scratched.
