As a citrus-growing enthusiast, you may be wondering: What is the best fertilizer for my meyer lemon tree? While there are a variety of sources of fertilizer for this plant, the ideal fertilizer for it depends on a few different factors. Let’s take a look at what you should consider when you choose a fertilizer for your meyer lemon tree.
First of all, it’s important to understand that citrus plants have high nitrogen and phosphorus needs. They prefer fertilizers that are high in these two nutrients, but they also require other nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and sulfur. When selecting a fertilizer, look for a product that contains all of these nutrients and has a ratio of 3:1:2 nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Another important factor to consider is the usage rate of the fertilizer. It’s best to use a fertilizer at a rate that is appropriate for the type and size of your tree. For instance, a young, small meyer lemon tree typically requires a lower rate of fertilizer than an established, larger one, so you must be sure to adjust your fertilizer usage accordingly.
The frequency of fertilizer usage is also key. Most fertilizer packages will provide instructions on how often to apply the product. Generally, you’ll want to fertilize your meyer lemon tree every four to six weeks between early spring and late fall. During longer, colder months, it’s best to cut back to once every two months.
Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that fertilizer strength is based on the ratio of available nutrients in the soil. You can use a soil test to determine the nutrient levels in your soil, and then adjust your fertilizer usage accordingly. If the soil test reveals that the soil is already adequately fertilized, then you may want to reduce the rate of fertilizer application or use a fertilizer with a lower nitrogen concentration.
Types of Fertilizer for Meyer Lemon Tree
Now that we’ve discussed the key considerations for selecting a fertilizer for your meyer lemon tree, let’s turn to the types of fertilizer you can use. Inorganic fertilizers are generally more quickly made available to the tree than organic fertilizers, so they tend to be the preferred option by many gardeners. Popular inorganic fertilizers for meyer lemon trees include ammonium sulfate, calcium nitrate, potassium sulfate, and potassium nitrate.
Organic fertilizers are also an option for fertilizing meyer lemon trees. These fertilizers provide a more prolonged release of nutrients compared to inorganic fertilizers. Popular organic fertilizers include fish emulsion, poultry manure, compost, and seaweed extract. Keep in mind that because organic fertilizers provide a slower release of nutrients, they should be applied more frequently.
It’s also worth noting that liquid fertilizers for meyer lemon trees are available. These can be simply diluted in water and then applied to the soil or sprayed directly onto the foliage. Liquid fertilizers are often regarded as the best option for young or newly planted trees, as they provide a quicker release of nutrients.
Best Time to Fertilize Meyer Lemon Tree
While the type of fertilizer you select is important, equally important is when you fertilize your meyer lemon tree. As a general rule, the best time to fertilize your tree is during the warmer months when the tree is actively growing. The ideal time is when new shoots are starting to appear on the tree, typically around early to mid-spring. The growth phase continues through late summer, so fertilizing during this period can also be beneficial.
You’ll want to avoid fertilizing when temperatures are too cold, typically below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Fertilizing meyer lemon trees in cold weather can cause the tree to become stressed and can even lead to plant damage. In addition, as noted previously, it’s best to reduce the rate of application when temperatures begin to drop in late fall.
How to Apply Fertilizer to Meyer Lemon Tree
After selecting the right fertilizer and determining the ideal time of application, you must then ensure you are properly applying it to the meyer lemon tree. It’s important to apply the fertilizer evenly to the entire root zone of the tree. One easy trick is to trace a circle in the soil around the trunk of the tree and then spread the fertilizer evenly within this circle.
Once the fertilizer has been applied, it’s important to water the tree thoroughly. This will help to ensure the fertilizer is properly absorbed by the soil and in turn, by the tree’s roots. Be sure to water the tree until the soil is somewhat dry to the touch once again.
Fertilizing Citrus Trees with Coffee Grounds
For those of you who are looking for an alternative to traditional fertilizers, coffee grounds can be an excellent supplement. Many folks compost their coffee grounds and then use them as a fertilizer additive, particularly for citrus trees. Coffee grounds provide a great source of nitrogen, which is an important nutrient for fruit tree health and growth. Simply spread the grounds around the tree’s base and then water thoroughly. This will give your meyer lemon tree a nice burst of nitrogen-rich fertilizer, with no harsh chemicals.
Potential Problems with Fertilizing Meyer Lemon Tree
It’s also important to be aware of potential problems associated with fertilizing meyer lemon trees. One of the most common mistakes is over-fertilizing, so be sure to use the appropriate rate for your tree’s size and growth stage. Too much fertilizer can cause excessive foliage growth and reduce the amount of fruit the tree produces. It can also lead to nutrient deficiencies, so be sure to follow directions on the fertilizer’s label.
Another potential issue is fertilizer burn, which results from a buildup of fertilizer salts in the soil. This can cause the leaves of the tree to scorch and turn brown. If you notice this on your meyer lemon tree, be sure to flush the soil with plenty of water, which should help to reduce the salt concentration.
Organic Alternatives to Fertilizing Meyer Lemon Tree
Finally, if you are looking for an organic approach to fertilizing your meyer lemon tree, there are several alternatives. Compost is a great source of nutrients and can be mixed into the soil around the tree. Another option is to apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree, as this will help to retain moisture and nutrients in the soil. You can also use a liquid fertilizer mixed with water and sprayed onto the leaves of the tree. This will provide a fast release of nutrients for quick absorption by the tree.
