A lemon tree sprout has a distinctive yellow-green appearance, with a bright yellow cap emerging from the top. The sprout is typically about 5-10 cm long, with 5-6 ridges pointing down towards the ground. On top of the sprout is a whorl of small leaves that are folded and have pointy tips. The leaves are between 1-3 cm long and the petiole – the stem attached to the leaves – is short and thick. The lemon tree sprout will typically be in the high 30s degree Celsius range in both haematocrit and temperature. As the seedling grows, it will eventually become a sapling, with new leaves and branches, and ultimately a tree.
Stages of Development
The growth of a lemon tree sprout is divided into four stages of development. Firstly, when the seeds are sown, they begin to sprout, producing a primary root. This root then grows and develops until it reaches the top of the soil. At this stage, the cotyledon, or embryonic leaves and stem, are exposed to the air. As the cotyledon absorbs light and moisture from the air, the leaves, stem, and root grow. The plant then enters the second stage of development, as the first shoots appear above the soil and the root system anchors the plant in place. In the third stage, the plant develops more buds and twigs and a taproot is formed. Lastly, the plant enters the last stage of development, which is when new growth appears, botanical structures are formed, and the tree begins to thrive.
Nutrients and Fertilizer
Lemon tree sprouts will definitely benefit from additional nutrients and minerals, and providing fertilizers specially formulated for citrus trees is highly recommended. When fertilizers are used, they should be added in very small amounts and sparingly, as too much fertilizer can burn the roots of the plant and stun growth. When adding fertilizer, the fertilizer should be mixed in with the soil in a measured amount and the soil should be monitored regularly to ensure the optimal amounts of nutrients are being delivered.
The environment in which the lemon tree is growing also plays a role in its success. Lemon trees thrive when planted in a sunny spot with well-draining soil containing some organic matter. Additionally, the soil should be raked regularly and aerated to ensure optimal root development.
Pest Prevention
In order to ensure a healthy lemon tree sprout, the correct preventative measures must be taken against pests and diseases. When the sprout is first planted, it is important to begin with a clean slate in terms of surrounding plant material and weeds. Weeds can become a harbour for pests, and insects should also be monitored to ensure the health of the lemon tree sprout. Additionally, the soil should be tested to ensure there is a good balance of nutrients, as this is important to the health of the tree. Additionally, organic and chemical applications should be used to keep pests and diseases away.
Transplanting
When the planting season is at its end, the lemon tree sprout must be carefully prepared for transplanting. Firstly, the soil should be cleared of any weeds and other plant matter. Additionally, the lemon tree sprout should be watered regularly, either through the soil or through a foliar application. Once the tree is approaching the desired size, it can be transplanted to its new location. At this stage, caution must be used when transplanting, as the root ball can be easily damaged, and so should be handled with great care.
Harvesting and Pruning
A lemon tree sprout typically takes around two or three years before it can yield fruit. When this point approaches, the tree can be pruned to encourage more growth and spread of its branches. Pruning should be done once a year and should be done in the late winter or early spring, when the tree is still in its dormant period. Additionally, when the tree is approaching maturity, it should be harvested just before it becomes ripe – when the fruit is still green and firm to the touch. This ensures that the fruits will stay fresh for longer and will have a better shelf-life.
Pests and Diseases
Pests and diseases are a common occurrence for lemon trees, and so preventive measures must be taken to ensure the health and growth of the tree. Common pests that plague lemon trees include aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects, while common diseases include citrus canker, Phytophthora root rot, and Pseudomonas blight. To prevent these pests and diseases, organic applications, such as neem oil or horticultural oils, should be used, and chemical applications may be necessary, such as spraying with a plant-safe insecticide.
Soil Health and Drainage
The health of a lemon tree’s soil is of utmost importance. The soil should be monitored regularly to ensure it is properly draining and has the correct balance of nutrients. Additionally, the soil should have some organic matter in it, ideally decomposed and aged compost or manure, to ensure strong root development. Amending the soil with these materials will also promote healthy growth and more resilient trees.
