Upon examining your lemon tree, you may worry that it is dying. It is important to carefully assess your lemon tree’s health in order to take action. Here are some steps you should take to determine if your lemon tree is dying.
Check the Leaves
It’s important to check your lemon tree’s leaves for signs of distress. Leaves that are yellow or brown are signs of potential damage. If you see other signs of disease, such as wilting or curled leaves, it could also be a sign of greater problems. If your lemon tree is not receiving enough water or too much water, this can also be a sign of distress.
Assess the Soil
Before assuming your lemon tree is dying, you should take a look at the soil. Poor soil quality may be a symptom of a larger issue. If the soil is dry and you find it difficult to dig in, it is likely that your lemon tree is not getting enough water and nutrients. You should also check for pests, as pests can quickly damage a lemon tree if left untreated.
Check for Disease
Disease can be a sign of a more serious issue with your lemon tree, and it is important to check for symptoms of disease. If you notice leaves with spots, wilting branches, or discoloration, these may be signs of bacterial or fungal diseases and should be treated immediately. You can also look out for powdery mildew, which may indicate your lemon tree needs more sunlight and air circulation.
Observe the Fruit
The state of the fruit can give you a good idea of your lemon tree’s health. If there is no fruit, or the fruit is small, this can be a sign that the lemon tree is struggling. If the fruit is starting to drop, it is likely it either has a disease or is not getting the right nutrients.
Examine the Roots
When examining the roots, check that they are healthy and white. If the roots are black, this can be a sign of rot or other problems. Check for any signs of pests, such as small insects or worms. If something does not look right, it is worth bringing in a soil test to determine what is going on in the soil.
Consult a Professional
If you are still unsure if your lemon tree is dying, you may want to consider consulting a professional. A professional arborist can assess the tree and provide you with the best advice for what action is needed to save your lemon tree.
Check for Pests
Pests are a common cause of distress in lemon trees, so it is important to check for any signs of pests. Look for tiny insects or worms, as well as damage to the leaves and branches. If you find evidence of pests, contact a professional pest control company to assess the issue and treat your lemon tree.
Test for Nutrient Deficiencies
If you think your lemon tree is not getting enough of the right nutrients, you can try testing the soil to assess the nutrient levels. If the soil is lacking in the necessary nutrients, you may need to apply fertilizer to boost the levels of nutrients in the soil. Alternatively, you can add a compost and mulch mixture to the soil to help boost the nutrient levels.
Check the Watering Cycle
If your lemon tree is not receiving enough or too much water, this can cause distress. Make sure you are following proper watering guidelines and that your lemon tree is getting the right amount of water. If you find that your watering schedule needs adjusting, make sure to adjust it accordingly.
Provide Proper Sun Exposure
Lemon trees need a good amount of sunlight to grow properly. Make sure your lemon tree is receiving at least four hours of direct sunlight per day. If you notice that the leaves are wilting or discoloring, it is likely it is not getting enough sun.
Check for Fungal Infection
Fungal infections can be a sign of distress in a lemon tree. If you notice signs of fungal infection or discolored leaves, you should consult a professional to get help treating the infection. Fungal infection is commonly treated with fungicide or insecticidal soap.
Add Compost or Mulch
Compost or mulch can be beneficial for lemon trees as it helps add nutrients to the soil. Compost helps add nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus to the soil, while mulch helps keep the soil moist and cuts down on weeds. Adding either of these to the soil can help boost the lemon tree’s health.
