Keeping your lemon tree healthy and productive requires proper care and maintenance. Knowing how to marcot a lemon tree is a beneficial skill for any gardener, as it allows for the control and continuation of the same variety for many generations. Marcotting allows for asexual reproduction of citrus and can be used for almost any citrus species. This article outlines the basics of how to marcot a lemon tree.
The most important part of marcotting is selecting the right branch. Look for a branch that is approximately 4 to 6 inches in diameter, preferably on the south or southeast side of the tree. Make sure this branch is healthy and has at least three leaf nodes. Once the branch is selected, use the pruning shear to cut it at an angle, leaving a few inches of the cambium layer attached to it.
The next step is to dig a hole in the ground. Make sure this hole is slightly larger than the branch and deep enough to completely cover the branch. Using the shovel, fill the bottom of the hole with a mix of compost, soil, and peat moss. Place the branch in the hole and fill the hole with the same soil mixture, making sure to fill in the gaps around the branch.
At this point, secure the branch in the hole by packing the soil around it or tie it loosely with a ribbon. The Ribbon should be removed as soon as the branch has rooted and when new growth has begun. The marcotting process usually takes anywhere from six weeks to six months, depending on the variety of lemon tree. During this time, the branch should be kept moist with regular watering and shielded from direct sunlight.
Finally, when the branch has rooted completely, the marcotting process is complete. The branch can now be carefully removed from the ground and transplanted wherever you would like. Make sure to give the branch some time to adjust before placing it in the sun, as this could cause the leaves to burn.
Choosing a Suitable Branch
Choosing the right branch is an important part of the marcotting process. The branch should be approximately 4 to 6 inches in diameter and be healthy with at least three leaf nodes. Avoid branches at the top of the lemon tree, as marcotting there could stunt the tree’s growth. It is best to select a branch from the sides or near the roots of the tree, to minimize the damage that marcotting can cause.
In addition, avoid selecting weak or diseased branches as these have a greater chance of failure. When selecting a branch, pay attention to any signs of disease or insect damage, such as wilting or insect activity. Marcotting a branch that is already weakened by disease or pests may lead to the death of the branch.
Lastly, select the branch with care. Cut the branch away at an angle with pruning shears, leaving a few inches of cambium layer attached to it. This helps the branch root properly and ensures that it will be able to develop into a healthy lemon tree.
Preparing the Soil
It is important to prepare the soil properly before marcotting. First, select a place that has well-draining soil and is away from any trees or shrubs. Using a shovel, dig a hole that is slightly larger than the branch and deep enough to completely cover it.
Next, create a soil mixture of compost, soil, and peat moss. The ratio of these components is dependent on the type of soil, but it is best to keep it 10-20% compost, 30-40% soil, and 40-50% peat moss. This mixture helps provide the branch with the proper nutrients and helps it to root correctly.
Finally, fill the hole with the soil mixture and press it down firmly. This ensures that the branch is firmly held in place and increases the chances of successful marcotting. Make sure to fill in any gaps around the branch and cover it completely with the soil.
Keeping the Branch Moist
Once the branch is securely in place, it is important to keep it moist throughout the marcotting process. Regular watering helps to prevent any dry patches in the soil that could slow root growth and stunt the development of the new plant. This does not, however, mean the soil should be overly wet, as this could lead to root rot.
Make sure to water the soil enough to moisten it, but not to the point where it is constantly wet. Doing so will ensure the branch is able to develop good root systems and eventually grow successfully into a lemon tree. Once new growth has begun, water less frequently, as the roots will be able to access water deeper in the soil.
Providing Shade and Protection
It is also important to provide the branch with some protection and shade. While it may be tempting to expose it to direct sunlight, the intense heat and light can cause the leaves to burn, leading to leaf scorching and the death of the branch. Instead, provide the branch with a light shade cloth or an overhead umbrella.
In addition, check regularly for signs of pests and disease. As the branch is vulnerable in its early stages, any attack by bugs or fungi can lead to fatal damage. Remove any pests or diseased leaves from the branch to prevent any further damage. Lastly, keep an eye out for any signs of the branch rooting or developing new growth. This usually takes anywhere from six weeks to six months, but can vary depending on the variety of lemon tree.
Transplanting
When the branch matures and has completely rooted, it can be carefully removed from the soil and transplanted to its new home. When removing it, use a sharp hoe to gently loosen the soil and then pick the branch up carefully. It is best to do this in early morning or late evening to reduce any stress on the branch. Make sure the soil has dried up at least a day before transplanting, as planting in wet soil can lead to root rot.
Before putting the branch in direct sunlight, give it some time to adjust in a shady area. This helps reduce any stress posed by sudden exposure to intense heat or light. When it is ready, the marcotted branch can be placed in the desired area and watered regularly. Once the new tree is established, it can be treated in the same way as any other lemon tree.
Pruning and Maintenance
Throughout the process, pruning is necessary to ensure healthy growth. Before transplanting the branch, trim off any weak shoots or branches. This helps the branch to focus its energy on building strong root systems and helps it become better established in its new home. Cut back some of the longest branches and leave room for growth.
After transplanting, regular pruning is also important. Remove branches that are not producing fruit or weak or diseased branches. It is also important to keep the tree’s canopy balanced by pruning away any branches that are competing for light or space. With proper care and maintenance, your marcotted lemon tree can provide you with years of fruit.
