When it comes to caring for a lemon tree, many individuals are unsure of how to provide the proper nutrition for the plant. It is important to not only feed the tree the nutrients it needs to grow, but also to water the plant sufficiently. The following outlines the basics of what to feed a lemon tree and how to supply the necessary care for the plant.
In general, a lemon tree should be fed with a well-balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for citrus plants. If a lemon tree is not being watered regularly and is becoming dry, a fertilizer containing phosphorus and/or potassium may be needed. To apply the fertilizer, sprinkle it around the tree’s root area concentrating on the outer circumference of the tree, being careful not to get the fertilizer too close to the trunk of the tree. The recommended quantity of fertilizer to be used is a 3-pound bag for a mature tree.
It’s common practice to feed the tree three to four times a year, approximately every 2 to 3 months. If the tree is newly planted and still in its juvenile stage, then it may be beneficial to feed it monthly with a balanced fertilizer. Furthermore, avoid using too much fertilizer as this can cause stress to the tree, damaging its leaves and damaging the growth rate of its fruits.
Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the lemon tree receives the proper amount of water. Generally speaking, a lemon tree should receive one to two inches of water per week throughout the growing season. The best way to measure how much water the tree is receiving is to water the tree slowly until the soil is damp five to eight inches from the base of the tree.
Finally, provide the tree with plenty of sunlight. Lemon trees prefer direct sun and should receive at least four hours of sunlight per day. If the tree is not exposed to direct sunlight or is in an environment that is too shady, it is important to satiate its need for sunlight through the use of indirect light.
Pruning
The pruning of a lemon tree is an important step in its maintenance. Pruning should be done with care and attention to the surrounding area in order to ensure that the growth of the tree does not cause any harm to others. As a rough guide, lemon trees should be pruned once a year and the branches should be cut back to roughly two-thirds of their original size. Pruning should also focus on trimming off any dead or dying branches from the tree. Additionally, it is beneficial to remove old fruit that has yet to ripen from the tree so that it can focus more of its energy on the production of fresh, ripe fruit.
Dealing With Pests and Diseases
It is critical to monitor the lemon tree for signs of pests or diseases. Various pests or fungi can drain the tree of its energy and weaken its blue structure, thwarting its growth and production of fruit. If any signs of pests or diseases are noticed, they should be addressed promptly and effectively. Generally speaking, this means utilizing an insecticide or fungicide. It is important to note that it is essential to use the correct type of insecticide or fungicide and to use them as instructed in order to safely eradicate the pests or disease.
Harvesting
Lemons are ripe for harvesting roughly three to five months after the tree has flowered. The lemons should be picked once they’ve turned yellow and should feel heavy for their size. It is important to remember to pick the lemons while they are still relatively young as they will have a greater concentration of juice and their skin will be thinner. Additionally, it is beneficial to pick lemons early in the morning while they are still cool and moist as to prevent the lemons from becoming over-ripe on the tree.
Storing
Once the lemons have been picked, they should be stored in a cool, dry place and consumed within two to three weeks of harvesting for optimal flavor and juice. If the lemons are not to be consumed within two to three weeks, they can be preserved in the refrigerator for longer periods of time. Additionally, it is possible to freeze the juice of lemons, which can be used for lemonade or other recipes.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing is an important part of caring for a lemon tree and should be done on a regular basis. Generally speaking, a lemon tree should be given a generous amount of nitrogen in the form of a special citrus fertilizer. This fertilizer should be applied to the soil around the tree every two to three months in order to adequately provide the tree with the right nutrients for growth and production of healthy fruit.
Pest Control
It is important to regularly monitor the lemon tree for signs of pests or disease. To do this, inspect the tree daily for any changes in leaves, fruit, or branches. If you notice any signs of infestation or disease, it is important to respond quickly by treating the tree with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide. It is important to note that many of these treatments are toxic and should not be used near children or pets.
Watering
Water is essential for the health of a lemon tree and it must be given regularly. Generally speaking, lemon trees should be watered every two to three days during the growing season and once a week during the off-season. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy and the water should be given around the tree’s base, not directly onto the trunk. Additionally, using a professional soil moisture meter can help to determine whether the tree needs to be watered or not.
