The lemon tree is a beautiful addition to any yard, but when to cover it can be a mystery to some. Although lemons are generally a hardy plant and can thrive in temperatures as low as -4°C, excessive cold or heat can be damaging for them. Furthermore, covering your lemon tree for temperature control can also offer it protection from other elements in its environment, such as insects, birds and other pests. There are several ways to cover lemons and here we’ll go into detail about when and how to cover lemon trees for optimal health.
In Cold Seasons
If you live in a place that experiences cold temperatures during the winter, covering your lemon tree is essential. Lemon trees will become dormant during periods of extreme cold, and while they survive these conditions, they can be easily damaged or even killed. To protect your lemon tree during these cold months, the best practice is to wrap it up with a blanket or other protective covering. This will help to shield it from the harshest of weather conditions and allow it to continue growing during this time. It is also best to cut back on watering during the cold season as well, to help it conserve energy.
In Hot Seasons
As stated before, temperatures over about 30°C can be extremely damaging for lemon trees, so it is important to keep your trees shaded and protected from the sun during these hot months. Again, it is best practice to use a blanket or other protective covering to help maintain temperatures. It is also advisable to water regularly during these times, so make sure to provide your lemon tree with adequate amounts of water. Furthermore, if the temperatures reach the higher end of the spectrum, you may need to move your tree to an area with more shade, or use a large fan or misting system to help keep the tree cool.
Other Elements to Consider
When covering your lemon tree, it is also worth taking into consideration the potential hazards from elements such as insects, birds and other pests. If you notice that your lemon trees are attracting pests more than normal, it is best to take measures to control the problem. Using netting or another type of covering can help to keep pests away, and may even require the use of special sprays to repel the insects. Furthermore, keeping your lemon tree pruned and in a healthy state can also help to avoid any pest problems.
In Summary
Covering your lemon tree is an essential part of keeping it healthy and happy. In cold months, wrap your tree up with a blanket or other protective covering and reduce its watering. During hot months, shade and protect your tree, water it regularly and, if necessary, move it to an area with more shade or use a fan or misting system to achieve optimal temperatures. Pay attention to the elements around your lemon tree and take action to avoid problems with pests or other hazards.
Container Planting
When planting a lemon tree in containers, it’s also important to keep it covered during fluctuating temperatures, as containers can easily heat up. Providing additional insulation in the form of sheets or fabric, or using a larger pot for the tree can help to keep temperatures stable and protect it from the harsh elements. Furthermore, your container should have drainage so the tree does not suffer from over-watering.
Wind Protection
Wind can also be damaging to your lemon tree, so it is important to provide some form of protection during gusty conditions. If you experience strong winds, it is best to wrap your tree up using something like burlap or another type of fabric. This will help to protect it from the strongest gusts, allowing it to continue thriving in harsh conditions.
Insect And Rodent Prevention
Insects and rodents can be extremely damaging to lemon trees, so it is best to implement precautionary measures when covering your tree. Netting can be very effective in keeping away insects, but it is also important to keep an eye out for any signs of damage to your lemon tree. Look for droppings, chewed leaves, or honeydew drips, and act quickly if you find anything that suggests a pest infestation. Removing any damaged parts of your tree as soon as possible can help to stop the spread of the damage.
Soil Care
As with any plant, the quality of soil matters for lemon trees too. To keep it healthy, the soil should be adequately aerated and contain plenty of nutrients. It is also important to give your tree the right pH level, which should be between 6 and 6.8. It is best to use potting compost or a soil explicitly designed for citrus plants, and to make sure to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
