Most people are unaware of where to find a lemon tree near them. However, this need not be a problem since there are numerous sources available to buy a lemon tree and enjoy the healthy and delicious benefits of having a lemon tree in your home. As a general rule, it is advisable to look first and foremost at local nurseries and garden centers as they are likely to stock healthy, well-grown lemon trees. Many local nurseries will also be able to offer advice on the best time to plant and how to take care of the lemon tree. If not enough local sources of lemon trees can be found, then one should look for online nurseries and seed companies. Online nurseries and seed companies often provide more complex varieties of lemon trees, such as Meyer or Eureka, as well as strong, healthy and superior grown lemon trees. It is also worth noting that online nurseries often provide lemon trees that are already grafted, meaning they are already producing fruit. Lastly, it is worth considering buying a few lemon saplings that can easily be kept in a pot and take the stress out of finding a source for lemon trees.
Types of Lemon Trees
Though not widely known by all, there is a variety of different types of lemon trees that can be grown at home. The most common types of lemon trees are to be found in the lemon tree family, Citrus Limon. These trees tend to be evergreen, though they are hardy enough to withstand cold temperatures. Meanwhile, the most popular types of lemon trees are Meyer and Eureka, which tend to have a larger crown than other trees and produce far larger fruits. In terms of other subtypes of lemon trees, there are also Lisbon lemon trees, which produce large and juicy fruits, while the Bearss lemon trees are slightly more sour in taste and can grow in colder climates.
Planting A Lemon Tree
When it comes to proper lemon tree planting, there are a few considerations to make. Firstly, the best time to plant a lemon tree is typically in the spring, which is when the best sunlight will penetrate the soil and promote the growing process. Secondly, it is best to use a slightly acidic soil that helps in nutrient absorption; this soil can be prepared beforehand with a mixture of potting soil, sphagnum moss, and compost. Finally, it is important to note that lemon trees require a lot of water to stay healthy, with each tree needing around four to five gallons of water a week. To ensure the water is being absorbed properly, it is best to dig a shallow rim around the base of the tree used for irrigation.
Caring for a Lemon Tree
Once planted and growing, lemon trees require regular and consistent care in order to remain healthy. Firstly, regular fertilization is essential, as these trees require adequate amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in order to thrive. Generally, a teaspoon of fertilizer should be added to the tree immediately after planting and then four times a year afterwards. Secondly, lemon trees require pruning in order to better shape them and promote fruit production. Pruning should generally take place twice per year, in the early spring and summer months. Finally, due to lemon trees delicate foliage and skin, they are typically subject to pests and diseases; as such, using fungicides and insecticides to protect the tree is essential.
Taking Lemons From The Trees
When it comes time to harvest lemons, the key is to identify when they are ripe. Lemons in a healthy tree tend to become ripe after around six months, and this can vary depending on the type of lemon tree. A ripe lemon tree will produce a fruit that is deep yellow on the outside and best-tasting if plucked when full of juice. Once the lemon is ready, the best way to pick is to lightly twist it from its stem. When harvesting from lemon trees, it is important to note that the maximum yield of fruits tends to occur during the second year of planting.
Propagating Lemon Trees
One of the best ways of ensuring a reliable harvest of lemons is to propagate your existing lemon tree using several methods. The most popular methods involve taking a cutting from a ripe and mature lemon tree and replanting it in the same location. The cutting should be approximately 16 inches long, with the lower half placed into the soil while the upper half is left exposed. In terms of other methods, air layering or grafting can also be utilized. Air layering involves wrapping the bark of the tree with moist sphagnum moss before planting, while grafting involves an expert taking a cutting from an existing tree and joining it with a secondary scion.
Diseases and Pests
It is important to remember that lemon trees are susceptible to a range of different diseases and pests that can impact their health, growth, and production of lemons. The most common disease seen in lemon trees tends to be the bacterial blight, which is characterized by yellow patches around the tree and small, faded fruits. In terms of pests, mealybugs, aphids, and thrips can all damage the tree, with certain insecticides and fungicides available to address these problems. If a lemon tree is experiencing a severe pest or disease attack they should be treated immediately, as this can guarantee the health of the tree and a successful harvest of lemons.
Time of Planting and Maintenance
Now that we have discussed the various aspects of finding, purchasing, planting, and caring for a lemon tree, it is important to make sure that gardening enthusiasts also stick to a regular maintenance schedule. This involves regular fertilizing, as mentioned earlier, and also making sure the lemon tree is receiving adequate amounts of sunlight, water, and air. Lemon trees require approximately eight to twelve hours of direct sunlight a day to grow and produce fruits, and the roots should always be kept cool and moist. In terms of air, lemon trees should be sprayed lightly every few days, to make sure the foliage remains healthy.
Using Prior Knowledge to Source Lemon Trees
It is important for fruit growers to leverage any existing knowledge they may possess in order to source lemon trees. In particular, many experts suggest joining gardening discussion boards and online communities in order to hear about any upcoming plants sales and local sources for lemon trees. In addition to this, enthusiasts should be looking for plants sales throughout the year and use these as an opportunity to snap up potential lemon trees. Finally, should all else fail, it is always possible to reach out to experts and ask them for advice. Many experts are more than willing to help, and they can offer vital assistance when it comes to sourcing a lemon tree.
Winterizing The Tree
When the winter months come in, gardeners must take extra care of their lemon trees in order to make sure they survive this harsher period. Prepare the tree for winter by mulching around the base of the tree to protect the roots and ensure the soil temperature is at an optimal level. In addition to this, watering during the winter needs to be reduced as too much water can create root rot, but it is still necessary for the tree to receive moisture to survive the cold. Finally, a light winter fertilizer can be applied once the temperature rises to over 45 degrees Fahrenheit; this will help nourish and protect the tree during the harsh winter.
Pruning The Lemon Tree
As the tree begins to grow, it will eventually need to be pruned in order to maximize the yield of the fruits. When pruning the tree, it is important to follow the general rule of thumb of cutting branches that are at least a quarter of an inch thick, as this is the best for promoting healthy growth and allowing the undamaged branches to retain vitality. When pruning, it is essential to use clean, sharp tools; this is to minimize the likelihood of a disease or pest attacking the tree, as a single wound could cause oak root fungus to spread, which can be fatal for the citrus tree.
Harvesting and Storing Lemons
Harvesting the lemons can take place during the summer months, and the best ripe fruits will be those that have a yellow, glossy skin. To ensure the maximum ripeness, pick the fruit when ready and do not store it while still on the tree. Once ready, lemons should be stored in a cool place and preferably in the fridge as this can help keep them fresh for longer. Lemons can also be stored in freeze bags and placed in the freezer; this helps retain their flavor and can potentially enable them to be kept for up to a year. Freeze bags are also valuable when it comes to storing the juice of lemons, as this can remain frozen without going off.
