Having a lemon tree in your home brings many advantages such as beauty, convenience and a delicious tangy fruit. But keeping your lemon tree healthy and thriving means that you must take into account numerous factors, one of them being when it is time to repot the tree. When a lemon tree has outgrown its existing pot, it is important to timely repot it properly. Here are some indications that you will want to look out for.
Firstly, if you notice that roots are emerging through the drainage holes of the pot, this can be an indication that the tree has outgrown its container. The roots of a lemon tree can grow quickly and a tree that was once in a manageable pot might need repotting within a couple of years. Since the tree is restricted within a small pot, the roots struggle for space and this will cause them to overpower neighbours and invade the area. As a result, roots that are visible adds a significant strain on the tree and the leaves tend to yellow.
Another indicator of when to repot a lemon tree is when you notice stunted or slow growth. Generally, when you repot a tree, the roots have adequate space to expand, allowing it to properly reach its harvest size. If you are looking to maximize production and harvest, repotting your lemon tree every two years will encourage larger growth. Overcrowding can be a major issue when it comes to citrus trees and repotting it more frequently will help with establishing a healthier environment.
Additionally, you could also look out for yellowing, dry leaves. Depending on the climate, a lemon tree can sometimes outgrow its pot when providing too much water and the roots become waterlogged. The lack of oxygen in the soil, due to overwatering, will cause the leaves to become discoloured. This adding further stress on the tree, making it unable to process nutrients and prompting it to shed old leaves, restricting new growth.
Moreover, if the trees height has exceeded its pot, this could be a sign that it needs repotting. A repotting schedule should be done every two years or so to ensure optimal growth and production. Keeping the pot size in proportion to the root system and height of a lemon tree is key in keeping your plant healthy and flourishing.
What Supplies Should You Use for Repotting?
When it comes to repotting, it is important to have the right tools and supplies at hand. Firstly, you will want to obtain a pot that’s one size larger than the previous one and make sure it contains drainage holes to prevent root rot. Secondly, you will need to get your hands on quality potting soil, as soil is the most crucial factor when it comes to potted citrus trees. Quality soil and a fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen and potassium will ensure your lemon tree has the ideal environment and all the potential to thrive.
Additionally, you will want to consider pruning and trimming back the existing root system. Pruning the root mass will help the tree to achieve maximum growth, as the existing root system will be cut down allowing the tree to be better adapted to its new home. All the roots should be trimmed back one to two inches, where the old soil had been. Then the root mass can be placed in the center of the new container and the soil can be added back fill in the space. Tapping gently around the root ball and ensuring that the existing soil is packed tightly, can also help with keeping the tree in an upright position.
Before you water your lemon tree, it is important to ensure that it is stable and in the correct position. After, you can go ahead and water it deeply and the soil should be kept moist for the first few weeks after the repotting, to give the tree the optimal conditions to receive its much needed nutrients.
What Containers Are Suitable for a Lemon Tree?
When selecting the best container for a lemon tree, it is important to look for materials that will provide the tree with a healthy environment to grow. Clay and ceramic pots are suitable options as they are porous which helps with the circulation of air and free drainage of water. And because they are heavier, they can provide stability, preventing the tree from swaying when the wind picks up.
In addition, terracotta pots are also good choices however they tend to be lightweight and might need to be placed on pebbles or a tray filled with water, to give them more balance. On the other hand, plastic pots are into the market and are increasingly becoming a popular choice due to its affordability and availability. Nevertheless, plastic is not always the best option for lemon trees as the material does not breathe or provide any external or internal moisture. Therefore, when it comes to choosing the right container, carefully consider the size, material and stability.
How Should You Prepare for Repotting?
It is advised to begin preparing for a repot several weeks in advance. This will allow for the necessary preparations such as obtaining the right supplies and performing root pruning. To carry out effective root pruning you must keep in mind that young and pencil sized branches should be kept intact, as they contribute to the trees overall structure. The soil should also be scraped gently, helping to remove the old soil adhesions that could cling and interfere with the new potting mix. And the branches should be pruned in the same way to remove any dry or dead leaves.
When assessing the size of the pot, you must keep in mind the growth rate of a lemon tree. This rate tends to increase as the tree matures and you will want to account for two more years of growth. It is important to understand that a more stable tree, as well as maximum growth, is achieved when the pot size is generous and when the roots are not choked. Furthermore, when you repot, you will also want to change the soil as it is a great opportunity to replenish lost nutrients and minerals.
How Can You Keep a Lemon Tree Healthy?
Once you have repotted your lemon tree, you must ensure it receives the proper care to keep it healthy and flourishing. Here are some key tips to bear in mind:
Firstly, light and temperature can have a great impact on the health of your lemon tree. Remember that citrus trees need full sun and bright, indirect light, this should be attracted around the tree. Especially in the winter season, when growth tends to slow down, you will want to encourage the tree by giving it some more heat and light, by keeping it away from cold drafts. Secondly, irrigation is of utmost importance when it comes to repotted lemon trees. The plant should be watered every other day, allowing the topsoil to become dry and moist before commencing hydration. Overwatering is a major issue when it comes to this type of tree, so avoid it at all costs.
Moreover, fertilization is also an essential aspect to consider when caring for citrus trees. Providing your lemon tree fertilizer gives it the chance to obtain nutrients that would have been depleted from the soil. Monthly fertilizers should be used preferably during their growing season, and can be diluted at half to one-third the strength recommended by the manufacturer’s instructions. Finally, pruning is a great strategy to encourage new growth and to promote more flowers and fruits. Pruning should take place in the spring, with mainly dead, dry and diseased tissues being removed.
What Are Some Pest and Disease Prevention Tips?
In order to prevent lemon trees from succumbing to pests and diseases, there are several strategies to adopt. Firstly, ensuring that the tree is repotted in the correct environment and implements the adequate watering, fertilizing and pruning strategies. Secondly, keeping the soil moist but well drained to prevent over-watering. Additionally, monitoring the soil and foliage for pests or potential diseases and dealing promptly with them. Common pests include cottony cushion scale and mealybugs.
Moreover, you must ensure to keep an eye on general signs of pest infestations such as yellowing leaves, holes in the leaves and small insects visible on the foliage. Sunlight and air exposure are also essential in deterring nutritional deficiencies and fungal diseases such as leaf spot, powdery mildew and rust. Furthermore, with good sanitary practices you can keep your lemon tree in excellent health. This means cleaning the pot and removing old soil, debris, fallen leaves and other signs of decay that, if left unclean, can attract fungus and insects.
When it comes to pest prevention, another great tool is the use of insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils, which can be used to rinse the trees foliage, killing any bugs that may have infested it. Ultimately, by combining proper maintenance, timely repotting and pest prevention, you should have a healthy, thriving lemon tree in your home.
