Picking the right time to pick lemons off the tree is one of the most important steps in harvesting some of the sweetest and juiciest fruits. At the right time, lemons can make all the difference in taste, texture, and aroma. While some people may think that picking lemons off the tree can be done anytime, this is not the case. There are certain variables like temperature, moisture levels and sun intensity that should be taken into account before you begin to harvest. Here are the best tips on when to pick lemons from the tree.
- Pick them when they have reached their full size, color, and flavor.
- Lemons should be plucked when the skin is completely yellow and just before the rind starts to soften.
- If the lemons have matured, you can easily remove them from the tree without any damage to the fruit.
- The optimal temperature for harvesting lemons is between 20 and 30 °C.
- Lemons picked at their best will be pliable, but firm.
- Look out for brown spots on the rind and avoid picking damaged fruits.
- Lemons can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks before use.
Types of Lemons
When deciding on when to pick lemons off the tree, it is important to know what type you are growing. There are two main types of lemons: sour and sweet. sour lemons are more acidic and tart in flavour, while sweet lemons have more sugar and less acidity. It is best to pick sour lemons when they have good color, but not fully ripe and sweet lemons when they are fully yellow and ripe. Knowing the type of lemon you are harvesting can also help you decide when it should be picked.
Pre-Harvest Care
Like many other fruits, lemons require pre-harvest care to ensure that they are picked at the proper time. This includes pruning the tree and ensuring that it is watered and fertilized regularly. Pruning will help keep the tree healthy and help in maintaining optimal moisture levels for proper ripening, while keeping the tree well-irrigated will help to prevent water stress and ensure that lemons reach their peak size and flavor. Fertilizing the tree will help to ensure that it has the nutrition necessary for optimal production.
Harvesting Tools
To ensure that you are picking the right lemons at the right time, you will need some basic harvesting tools. This includes specialty pruners, buckets, and bags. Pruners and loppers should be designed to minimize damage to the tree and the fruit and should be sharp for an easy and clean cut. Buckets and bags should be sturdy enough to hold the lemons without them becoming damaged.
Post Harvest Care
Once the lemons have been harvested, it is important to store them properly to maintain their quality. Lemons should be stored in a cool, dark place where they won’t be exposed to direct sunlight. Temperatures should be between 0 and 10 °C, and preferably not in the refrigerator. Lemons should be kept in airtight containers, and should be eaten within a week of harvesting.
Pests and Diseases
It is important to inspect the lemons regularly for signs of pests and diseases. Common lemons pests include aphids, white flies, mealybugs, and scale insects. Common diseases include powdery mildew and citrus black spot. Proper pruning and good gardening practices can help to prevent pests and diseases from infecting the trees and getting into the lemons. If pests or diseases are found, it is best to treat the trees and fruit as soon as possible.
Harvest Frequency
When harvesting lemons, it is always best to do so on a regular basis, as frequent harvesting will help to ensure optimal quality and taste. Lemons can be harvested up to 4-6 times a season, depending on the climate and type, and should be harvested when they reach their full size and color. If you want to maximize the yield of your tree, it is best to stagger the harvests so that there is a continuous supply of fruit.
Harvesting Time
When determining when to pick lemons off the tree, it is important to think about the temperature, humidity levels, and sun intensity. In general, lemons should be harvested during the cooler parts of the day, when the temperature is between 20-30°C. Too much heat can cause the lemons to dry out and lose their flavor, whereas too much moisture can cause the lemons to become too soft. It is also important to keep in mind that the sun intensity will affect the ripening of the lemons, so it is best to pick them when the sunlight is at its brightest.
