Lemon is a versatile fruit. Commonly referred to as a citrus fruit, lemons are a type of flowering tree which are native to South and Southeast Asia. Lemons have been used in culinary meals, as well as for their healing properties for centuries. But does lemon grow on a tree?
The simple answer is yes; lemons do grow on a tree. Lemons are a perennial tree, meaning they will produce fruit year round and can last more than two years. The lemon tree is a short, evergreen tree that is found in warm climates. The lemon tree usually grows between ten and fifteen feet tall, although some can reach heights of up to twenty-five feet.
Lemon trees produce fragrant white flowers in clusters during late summer and autumn. A single tree can produce up to 200 lemons in a season. The fruits are oval-shaped with a thick, yellow rind and sour-tasting, thick juice inside. They typically take between six to nine months to reach maturity before they can be harvested.
Lemon trees are hardy and are very tolerant of drought and heat. They require a great deal of sunlight to produce good lemons and need a deep soil that can retain water. Lemons are a global crop, being cultivated in all the world’s tropical and subtropical regions.
Besides being an important crop, lemon trees are an ornamental tree, providing a rich sense of deep-green foliage to the landscape. One of the most beautiful ornamental lemon trees is the Variegated Pink Lemon. This tree has mottled green-and-white foliage with rosy pink fruits that are bigger than most other lemon varieties. The fruits also become pinker as they mature.
In conclusion, lemon is indeed a tree that can be found in warm climates around the world. They need ample sunlight, water and a rich, deep soil in order to produce the best fruits. Additionally, lemon trees adorn the landscape and the variegated pink lemon is a particularly beautiful specimen.
Uses of Lemon Tree
The lemon tree is put to many uses. Lemons are one of the most commonly used citrus fruits, owing to their bright flavor. They are used in the preparation of numerous dishes, from salads to beverages. Lime juice, a popular beverage ingredient, is produced from lemons. Lemons are also an important ingredient in many personal and industrial cleaning products, from kitchen countertop wipes to industrial cleaners.
The fruit’s acidic properties also make it useful in medicine. Lemon juice is often used to treat sore throats, indigestion and other digestive issues. Lemon juice also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, which makes it useful in skin care. Lemon is often used to treat skin blemishes and it is believed to aid in weight loss, in addition to being a source of Vitamin C and other essential minerals.
Lemons are also used as natural insect repellents. Trees planted near homesteads have been known to keep insects away. The fragrance of lemons when smelt can also deter common indoor pests such as mosquitos, ants, and spiders. In some instances, the leaves from lemon trees can also be boiled and applied topically to the skin for the treatment of certain skin conditions such as eczema.
Additionally, lemon oil obtained from the fruit rind is often used as an aromatic in cosmetics and perfumes. The aromatic properties of lemon trees lend them more to use as ornamental plants, as well as encourage pollinators to the plants.
Benefits Of Lemon Tree
Lemon trees provide many benefits. The cultivation of lemon trees gives farmers around the world an opportunity to make a good source of income. Furthermore, the health benefits of lemon as an ingredient in food and skin care preparations make it an important crop. Lemons are also an important source of Vitamin C, in addition to containing dietary fibre and antioxidants.
The ornamental benefits of the lemon tree must also be noted. Lemon trees provide a lush, green backdrop in any garden. The lemon tree is a welcomed addition in the garden or patio and the fragrant flowers of the tree offer a heady and sweet aroma. Lemon trees can also be pruned to give them a desired shape.
Besides the fragrant flowers, the lemon tree can provide delicious fruits for consumption. As mentioned, lemons are an ingredient in many dishes, from sweet baking to savory recipes and as a garnish. Lemons also have cleansing properties and are often used in making lemonade and other beverages.
Furthermore, lemon trees can resist drought and heat, enabling them to grow and yield fruits in hot climates where other fruits may not survive. The lemon tree is therefore a versatile plant, contributing to a balanced lifestyle.
Cautions About Lemon Tree
Despite the many health benefits of lemons, they also have their cautions. The acidity of lemons can cause damage to your teeth enamel if eaten in excess. Lemon juice can also cause digestive issues such as heartburn or acid reflux. People taking specific medications such as digoxin should also exercise caution when consuming lemons as the acidity can interfere with absorption of the drug.
In terms of lemons as a tree, homeowners should be aware of the dangers of planting the trees near areas where children or pets play. The acidic nature of lemon juice may cause skin irritation. The scent of blossoms on the tree may also induce an allergic reaction in some people.
Caring for a lemon tree also requires that some factors be taken into consideration. Lemon trees should be planted in areas with adequate sunlight and where water can be easily stored and allowed to drain properly. Additionally, the lemon tree should be planted in soils that are balanced and free of disease. Fungal and fungal diseases should be monitored closely when cultivating the trees.
Harvesting of Lemon Tree
Lemons are ripe when they are picked at the right time. Unripe lemons tend to be sour and inedible, while overly ripe lemons are pithy and lack flavor. The ideal time to harvest a lemon is when the fruit has a glossy yellow color, with any remaining green streaks. The lemon should be firm, heavy and plump to the touch.
To harvest a lemon, simply twist the fruit firmly while cupping it in the palm of your hand. If the lemon does not come off the tree easily, use clippers or scissors to snip it in half, as this may trigger the fruit to release from the tree. Avoid pulling the fruit, as this may harm the tree.
Lemons can also be harvested by pruning the branches of the tree to create space for more light, air circulation, and better fruit set. Prune dead or broken branches, as well as those with weak forks. Always make sure to prune in the fruiting season, as this will give you the best results.
Once the lemons have been harvested, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Lemons can also be stored in the refrigerator, as long as they are wrapped in plastic, or squeezed for their juice and frozen in ice cube trays.
