Lemons are widely used in many recipes offering a unique flavor and are incredibly healthy too, so one of the best investments an Ontarian can make is to purchase a lemon tree. Finding where to buy a lemon tree in Ontario can be a great adventure, as the province offers a variety of stores and nurseries where one can find their perfect lemon tree.
The first place to look is at a local garden store or nursery. Many cities across Ontario have highly celebrated garden stores that carry a wide selection of lemon trees. From young saplings to semi-mature ones, these garden stores will have what is needed to start growing your own. Stores such as The Plant Farm, Noggins Corner Farm Market, and Plant Paradise Country Gardens are all located conveniently within Ontario and carry a variety of lemon tree options.
Another spot to look for lemon trees is through online nurseries. This option gives the customer the convenience of comparing prices and products between different nurseries and suppliers, allowing for the possibility of finding the best tree at the best price. Ontario’s Own Organic, J&A Ehrhart, and Trees on the Move are some of the many online nurseries that offer lemon trees for Ontarians.
It is also possible to purchase certified organic lemon trees from companies such as Big Red Sun and The Urban Greenhouse. These two stores,, specialize in selling organic lemon trees, guaranteeing customers’ peace of mind knowing their tree was grown naturally, without the use of artificial fertilizers or pesticides.
By visiting one of Ontario’s local nurseries, ordering an organic tree online, or finding an online store carrying lemon trees, Ontarians can have their lemon tree within a few days of finding it. There are tons of choices out there and plenty of resources to ensure a successful purchase, such as customer reviews or grower feedback.
Types of Lemon Trees
When shopping for lemon trees, it is important to consider various kinds of lemon trees. For instance, some popular lemon varieties grown in Ontario include the Meyer Lemon, Ponderosa Lemon, Bearss Lemon, and the Mexican Thornless Lemon. Aside from these different varieties, lemon trees come in different sizes, ranging from dwarf trees that can grow in containers to larger trees that work best in the garden.
The average lemon tree can reach up to 15 feet tall, but there are certain types of dwarf lemon trees that can stay as low as 6 feet. These are ideal for indoor or container growing, as they can happily prosper in smaller spaces without having to be pruned. For this reason, many first-time lemon tree owners opt for dwarf varieties.
For those desiring a larger tree, full-sized lemon trees are available from most nurseries and online vendors. They may come pre-pruned or in their natural form, both of which will require regular trimming and pruning for the best results. Lemon trees planted in the garden should be supplemented with fertilizer and given adequate sun and water, to encourage robust growth and fruiting.
Aside from the size and shape of the trees, customers should also look for trees with healthy leaves and stems, as well as a stamp of approval from a certified nursery. This will indicate that the tree is of high quality and well-maintained, and ensures that the customer has the best product.
Finding the Right Soil
Another important detail when growing lemon trees is to choose the right soil. Lemon trees enjoy nutrient-rich soils, especially during the summer. Though it is possible to purchase soil from local stores, making your own will provide better results and is easier to control. Homemade soils can be made with a mixture of vermiculite, sand, and potting soil, as well as compost or manure to act as fertilizer. These elements combined create an ideal soil for lemon plants.
Similar to water and nutrients, temperature is also an important factor for these trees. Most lemons will not tolerate temperatures below 20 F (-7 C), so keeping them outdoors in cold climates may not be an option. If needed, lemon trees can be brought indoors during the winter to guarantee their safety from the cold.
In addition to temperature, humidity levels should also be considered when growing lemon trees. Lemons will not do well in overly humid climates, and will need to be misted every now and then. Some places, such as Toronto and Niagara, may be especially humid during the summer and require extra care.
Caring for Lemon Trees
Once the lemon tree is settled in the right soil, water must be administered correctly. Trees have different watering requirements, depending on the season and the temperature. During the summer and spring, lemon trees may require watering every few days, while winter watering can be reduced to once or twice a month.
After the first year of growth, when lemon trees begin to bear fruit, a fertilizer should be administered every two weeks. Organic fertilizers such as seaweed extract, fish emulsion, or manure tea are some of the best options for lemons trees, as they provide all the necessary micronutrients for optimal growth.
Lemon trees can also be sensitive to insect infestations, so keeping a close eye on their health is important. Regular examination for pests, fungus, and diseases can help prevent problems. Furthermore, proper space between the trees and the addition of proper supports help avoid pest infestations and other common problems such as broken branches.
Protecting Lemon Trees
When temperatures are too low or too hot, it is important to take measures to protect the lemon tree. A layer of mulch or straw around the tree will provide extra insulation, as well as avoid areas of standing water. Coverings such as freeze cloth or row covers can also be used during extreme temperatures while maintaining airflow.
Lemon trees can also tolerate temperatures up to 40 F (4.4C), but not if the temperatures are accompanied by strong winds or other conditions. Therefore, it is important to check the conditions in which the lemon trees will be exposed, and find ways to protect them as necessary. If the tree is left outdoors during the winter, adding an extra layer of protection can help it survive.
There are many different ways to protect lemon trees from the cold, such as adding a protective wrap, an insulating material, such as burlap, or an inner layer of protection, such as wood chips. The type of protection chosen will depend on the temperature, the tree size, and the temperature fluctuations in the area. Covering the tree can also help ward off other problems, such as wind damage and pest infestations.
Harvest and Maintenance
Most lemon trees begin to fruit after the first year of growth, so it is a good idea to keep an eye on them during the fruiting season. Lemons will ripen best when picked mid-summer, and may require thinning if the branches start looking overburdened. It is recommended to wait until the fruit is ripe before picking, and to pick them often to avoid overgrowth.
Lemon tree pruning can also help maintain the shape of the tree, as well as the health of the branches and foliage. The best time to prune is in winter when the tree is dormant, removing any dead or overgrown branches. If a lemon tree is given the right care and attention, it will begin producing fruits within a few years.
By following the right tips and obtaining the necessary supplies, any Ontarian can have a beautiful and healthy lemon tree in their garden. Shopping around, considering all kinds of options, and taking into consideration the specific needs of the tree will guarantee a successful purchase and a fruitful result.
