When deciding what size pot a lemon tree needs, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, the size of the lemon tree itself, as larger trees will require bigger pots. Secondly, the climate where you live as this will affect soil drainage; a pot with good drainage is essential for a lemon tree. Thirdly, the type of citrus tree you’re growing, as this will determine how large the roots are and how much potting mix it will need. Finally, the amount of fertilization the tree will receive and the size of the rootball should also be taken into consideration.
Rootball Size
The size of the rootball will dictate the size of the pot required for a lemon tree. The rootball should fit snugly into the container as the tree grows, so it should be about twice the size of the rootball to allow for root growth. If the pot is too small, the root system may become root bound and begin to eat away at the sides of the container, ultimately leading to unhealthy root development. If the pot is too large, the tree may become unstable and difficult to manoeuvre.
Climate
The climate in which you live will affect the soil drainage of the pot. If the climate is humid and wet, then a pot with good drainage is essential, as this type of environment can lead to root rot. The pot should also have adequate air circulation, with plenty of holes for air to move through, and should be located in a place with plenty of direct sunlight. A pot with good drainage and circulation also allows for easy manual fertilization of the lemon tree.
Citrus Tree Type
The type of citrus tree can also affect the size of the pot needed for a lemon tree. Dwarf varieties need smaller pots, as their roots are more compact and require less soil for root development. On the other hand, larger varieties, such as lemons and oranges, need larger containers with more soil. The size of the pot should be able to accommodate the root mass and allow for easy fertilization.
Fertilization
For lemon trees, adequate fertilization is essential for growth and production. Generally, citrus trees should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer two to three times per year. Overfertilizing can lead to nutrient burn, which can cause nutrient deficiencies in the tree and decrease crop yield. When selecting a pot, it is important to take into consideration how much fertilization the tree will receive and the size of the rootball. If the pot is too small, the fertilizer can leach out too quickly and the tree will not benefit from the extra nutrients.
Feeding
In addition to providing adequate fertilization, lemon trees should also be fed with compost or other organic matter. Compost can be added to the soil to provide the tree with the essential nutrients it needs for vigorous growth and abundant fruit production. It should be noted, however, that compost can modify the pH of the soil, which can lead to nutrient imbalances. Therefore, it is important to keep soil pH between 6.3 and 6.8.
Pruning
When selecting a pot for a lemon tree, it is important to ensure that the pot is large enough to accommodate pruning. Pruning helps to regulate growth and control the shape of the tree. Pruning also removes damaged or dead branches which can help to reduce the amount of pests or diseases that can infect the lemon tree. A larger pot will also allow the tree to receive sufficient water and nutrients during the growing season.
Soil
The soil used for a lemon tree must have good drainage and aeration. Compost can be added to sandy soil to promote drainage and increase organic matter. Clay soils should also be amended with compost, as this can help to improve absorption of water and nutrients, as well as modify the structure of the soil. When selecting a pot, it should include soil that is specifically designed for citrus trees, as this will provide the best growth environment for the lemon tree.
