Planting a lemon tree can be an enjoyable and fruitful experience if you follow some important steps. An ideal location that has plenty of sunlight, shelter from wind and protection from frost is required for its successful growth. It’s important to consider the space you have available and the variety of lemon tree you are choosing, as certain types may require more space than others. Choose wisely between a standard tree and a dwarf tree as the former could grow to anywhere between 6-10 m, while the latter may be as small as 2-4 m. You should also assess the soil you have available for the tree, as it needs to be moist but well-drained and should be of a slightly acidic soil pH for the best growth. When it comes to planting, the basic rule of thumb is to plant a tree at the same depth as it was previously grown.
Required Planting Tools
In terms of tools, gloves, a spade, a trowel, a rake and a hosepipe are necessary for the successful planting of a lemon tree. The gloves are important for protecting your hands and keeping them clean, while thespade should be used to create a planting hole. You should dig the hole twiceas wide and the same depth as the root ball of the tree, then use the trowel tofill the hole with soil by adding back a mixture of soil, compost and manure. Finally use the rake to level the soil surface and the hosepipe to water the tree.
Fertilizing The Tree
It is vital to fertilize your lemon tree to ensure its growth and performance. Ideally 3-4 fertilizations per year are recommended for creating strong and healthy fruit. A slow-release fertilizer is best to use as it slowly provides nutrients to the soil and tree directly which will help promote healthy growth. Alternatively, for those who would prefer to make their own fertilizers, a combination of liquid seaweed and fish fertilizers can get the job done.
A Typical Issue – Pests & Diseases
Pests anddiseases are one of the commonest issues when it comes to planting a lemon tree. Therefore, proper care should be taken to avoid any such problems. In general, it is recommended to checkthe tree regularly and if you see any signs of insect bites, white spots or yellowing leaves, take necessary measures to remove and control the pests and diseases. Pruning the tree at regular intervals is also an important practice and the best time to do this is prior to flowering or after harvesting.
Final Preparations Before Planting
Before planting, ensure the roots are not overly dry and keep them hydrated by soaking for a few hours in water. Cut off any dead or broken roots before it is planted in the ground to ensure healthy root growth. Furthermore, a generous amount of mulch should be spread around the base of the tree which will help retain the moisture in them soil and control weeds. Finally, stake the tree so that it is well supported when growing and ensure that the stake does not damage the root system.
Key Considerations for Planting
When planting a lemon tree, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, make use of a soil amendment such as gypsum or lime to adjust the soil pH as this helps in better nutrient uptake and growth of the plant. Secondly, be sure to water the tree regularly and check for adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging. Thirdly, provide protection from the wind by placing a wall or fence on the windward side of the tree, as this helps protect it from strong winds which can damage the branches and fruit. Finally, place the lemon tree in a sunny spot for it to be exposed to at least 6 hours of direct sun daily.
Other Maintenance Steps Post Planting
Post planting, there are a few maintenance steps that need to be taken to keep your lemon tree healthy. This includes regularly cleaning the leaves of the tree, as this allows maximum sun exposure and prevents the spread of pests and diseases. The tree should also be pruned on a regular basis to keep it productive, and a mild fungicidal wash may be applied prior to pruning to prevent spread of any fungal diseases. Gaps in the tree canopy should also be filled with plants, preferably companion plants that will help in protecting and nurturing the tree. Apart from this, regular checking for pests and providing appropriate control is also essential for keeping unwanted creatures away from the tree.
Harvesting from Lemon Tree
Once your lemon tree is established, you can begin harvesting its fruit. The best time for harvesting is when the lemon is slightly yellow as this is when it is at its peak ripeness. Different varieties of lemon tree may take up to two years to begin fruiting, at which point you should start seeing the fruits on the tree which can be harvested when they reach their full size. For the best results, the fruits should be picked when slightly soft and always use clean, sharp shears to avoid damage to the tree. Additionally, it is recommended to harvest the fruit at least every two weeks or when they become ripe, as this will help to produce a continuous supply of lemons.
Protection of Lemon Tree
Protection of your lemon tree is key to ensuring long-term productivity and health. During winter and other adverse weather conditions, make sure to protect the tree by covering it with burlap, paper or tarp. It’s important to note that the cover should be loose enough to allow air movement, and it should also reach the ground to prevent cold air from getting to the root zone. Further, ensure to leave an appropriate anchoring system to hold the cover in place and to avoid unintentional damage to the tree trunk and branches. Providing adequate protection from adverse weather conditions will help protect the tree from any potential damage and ensure its longevity.
Additional Care for Lemon Tree
Irrigation of the lemon tree is essential for maintaining its health and ensuring continued growth. If the tree is not getting necessary moisture or is in a drought-like situation, water it thoroughly and deeply to keep the roots moist. This will help the roots grow stronger and deeper, enabling the tree to obtain better nutrients and water from the soil. Additionally, while there is no need to apply fertilizers regularly, an occasional dose of fertilizer in form of compost or manure will help in maintaining its health and providing the necessary nutrients.
