Growing a lemon tree from seeds is a rewarding and relatively simple process. To successfully cultivate a lemon tree requires you to understand the basics of lemon tree care. You’ll need to cultivate a healthy seedling and keep it protected from pests and diseases. Here’s how:
1. Obtain lemon tree seeds from a local garden store. Do not buy seeds from an online retailer as some may not be viable.
2. Place the seeds into a bowl and cover them with lukewarm water. Allow them to soak overnight to promote germination.
3. Construct a seedling box, which should be approximately 8 inches deep and wide. Fill the box with sterile potting soil and fertilizer.
4. Plant each lemon tree seed approximately 2 inches deep in the soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.
5. Water the seedling box with a hose or watering can. Ensure the soil is moist but not soaking wet.
6. Place the seedling box in a site exposed to full sun, and with protective cover from wind and heavy rains.
7. Monitor the progress of your lemon tree: water the plant regularly and gently manipulate the branches to support healthy growth.
Nurturing Your Lemon Tree
Once your lemon tree seedling is planted, it’s time to start nurturing it. Proper care for your lemon tree will help ensure you get the best possible fruit in the future. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Maintain a rigorous watering schedule. Lemon trees need at least 1 inch of water per week, or more if the temperatures are exceptionally warm.
2. Monitor the soil quality – the pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5. Adjust the pH of the soil if necessary.
3. Apply fertilizer to the lemon tree once every 2 weeks. Organic compost is preferable.
4. Keep the lemon tree free of pests. Insects such as aphids, mealybugs and spider mites can lead to a decrease in fruit yield.
5. Prune the tree regularly to encourage its growth. Cut away any damaged or dead branches.
Protecting Your Lemon Tree from Diseases
Lemon trees are susceptible to a variety of diseases and must be properly protected against them. Below, you’ll find some tips:
1. Infected plants must be removed from the garden immediately. Don’t transport them in the same car as non-infected plants as this will spread disease.
2. Rotate your lemon tree in different parts of the garden to help reduce the chances of disease developing.
3. Don’t crowd your lemon trees or allow any parts of the plant to come into contact with soil or water which may contain disease.
4. Remove any fallen or dead leaves as these may contain disease.
5. Always wear protective clothing while pruning your lemon tree to prevent skin irritation.
Adding Support to Your Lemon Tree
Your lemon tree will need support as it grows – additional supports should be added to the tree to maximise the amount of sunlight and air it receives. Here are some tips:
1. Buy a stake and bolt it securely into the ground next to your lemon tree. Tie the tree to the stake using pieces of twine.
2. Install a trellis to support the weight of the branches as the tree matures.
3. Buy a tomato plant cage. These are specially designed to support lemon trees, and provide protection from strong winds.
4. Fasten ropes or wires to the trellis or stake and use these to provide additional support. Make sure the ropes are tight to prevent the tree from swaying in the wind.
5. Trim the branches of your lemon tree lightly every few weeks to prevent them from coming into contact with soil or other plants.
Preparing Your Lemon Tree for Winter
Winter can be challenging for lemon trees due to the cold temperatures and frost. To give your lemon tree the best chance of survival:
1. Cut back the lemon tree branches before winter arrives. This will reduce the amount of foliage exposed to cold winds.
2. Move the tree to a spot where it can receive protection from extreme temperatures. It’s better to pick a spot in your garden which is slightly sheltered.
3. Mulch the soil surrounding the lemon tree to retain moisture. This will help keep the roots warm and protect the tree from frost.
4. Cover the tree with a tarp or frost cloth if temperatures plummet. Make sure the tarp is secured firmly around the tree with ropes.
5. Protect the tree from pests such as rodents and birds, which may seek shelter in the tree during winter. Place a bird netting over the tree to keep birds at bay.
Maximizing Fruit Yield
Now that your lemon tree is firmly established, it’s time to focus on maximizing fruit yield. Here’s how:
1. Choose young, healthy-looking trees as these will yield more fruit. Older trees will often produce less.
2. Make sure the tree has enough water and nutrients. Apply fertilizer once a month and keep the soil moist.
3. Keep the soil covered with organic mulch, or blankets made of old clothes. This will help the soil retain moisture and nutrients.
4. Remove any dead leaves or branches to help the lemon tree focus its energy on producing flowers and fruit.
5. Prune the tree regularly to get rid of dead wood and to maximize air circulation between the branches.
