When it comes to picking lemons off a tree, the time is essential. Most lemons have to be picked when they are young and green to ensure they don’t become overly ripe and tough. Knowing when to pick the lemons is critical to a successful harvest. Contrary to popular belief, it’s prudent to pick lemons before they are ripe and that there are a few things to consider before taking them off the tree.
The most important factor when it comes to picking lemons off the tree is the size of the fruit. Lemons should be picked when they are two inches in diameter or smaller. At this size, the fruit will have the most potential for ripening to full lemon flavor and sweetness. If the fruit is picked too late, it may not reach its full potential.
Lemon tree owners should also pay attention to the color of the fruit, as this is a key indicator of ripeness. If the lemon is still green, it is too early to harvest. If it has yellowed slightly, the fruit is just beginning to ripen and should therefore be picked. If it has a deep yellow hue, it is likely ready for harvesting.
The climate should also be taken into account when deciding when to pick lemons from the tree. If the tree is exposed to strong winds, rain and cold temperatures, the fruit may ripen prematurely. Additionally, if the tree is in an area where the temperature fluctuates significantly, the lemons may not ripen evenly, leading to unripe or overripe fruit.
Finally, lemons should be harvested when the weather is dry. This will help ensure that the fruit does not become waterlogged and rot on the tree. If there is rain in the forecast, it may be prudent to wait until it passes before picking the fruit.
Picking Ripe Lemons
When picking ripe lemons off the tree, it is essential to pick the fruit when it has developed a deep yellow hue. The fruit will have a softer texture and yield more juice compared to green lemons. As the lemons ripen, they will begin to drop from the tree, so if the fruit is past its prime, it may require a ladder or pole to reach the fruit.
If the lemons need to continue to ripen, the best method is to place them on a sunny windowsill or any area with temperatures of between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit for a few days’ time. The lemons will slowly turn from green to yellow as they ripen. It is also important to check the lemons daily to ensure that they are not exposed to temperatures that are too high as this can cause them to become too soft and overripe.
Finally, it is important to store the lemons in a cool, dry place. Storing them in the refrigerator will help them retain their flavor and juiciness for a longer period.
Harvesting Sliced Lemons
In some cases, it may be necessary to harvest lemons before they are ripe. When this is the case, it is essential to harvest the lemons when they are between 2 and 3 inches in diameter. Lemons of this size will have the most potential for ripening without becoming overly soft and losing their flavor. To properly harvest sliced lemons, it is best to wait until the leaves of the tree are less brittle and use a sharp knife or pruning shears to make the cuts.
Before making cuts, it is important to check for any additional damage to the fruit. If the lemon is damaged, it should not be picked as its flavor and juiciness may be compromised. When slicing lemons, it is important to be mindful of the tree’s bark; as slicing too deep could damage the tree itself.
When harvesting sliced lemons, timing is essential. It is best to harvest lemons in the late spring or early summer when they are at the peak of ripeness. However, if the lemons need to ripen further, the best option is to wait until they reach the desired size before picking them.
It is also essential to store cut lemons as soon as they are picked. Lemons can quickly lose their flavor and crunch if they are left sitting out in high temperatures and humidity. The best way to store cut lemons is to submerge them in water in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Determining Lemon Ripeness
The best way to determine lemon ripeness is to check the color, size and texture of the fruit. If the lemon is still green and hard to the touch, it needs more time to ripen. If the lemon is slightly yellow and beginning to soften, however, it is likely ready for picking. Additionally, a lemon should be picked when it is two inches in diameter or less, as this will ensure the best flavor and sweetness.
The other factor to consider when determining ripeness is the climate and weather. If the tree is exposed to heavy wind, rain and cold temperatures, the fruit may not ripen as desired. Additionally, if the temperature fluctuates significantly, the lemons may not ripen evenly, resulting in unripe or overripe fruit.
Finally, the tree itself should be taken into account. If the leaves feel brittle and are starting to lose their strength, the tree is likely ready for harvesting. If the leaves are still pliable, however, then the lemons may still need additional time to ripen.
When To Harvest Lemons
The best time to harvest lemons is when the fruit is 2 inches in diameter or smaller and has reached a deep yellow hue. At this size and color, the lemons will have the most potential for ripening and developing their full flavor and sweetness. It is essential to consider the climate and weather, as well as the tree’s bark, before harvesting the lemons.
Additionally, it is important to store fresh lemons as soon as possible after harvesting, as they can quickly lose their flavor and juiciness if left exposed to heat and humidity. If sliced lemons are harvested, it is best to store them in an airtight container submerged in water for up to two weeks. The best way to determine the ripeness of lemons is to check the color, size and texture of the fruit prior to harvest.
