Lemons, the tart, juicy fruit, have long been an integral part of cuisines around the world. But what causes them to fall off the tree? This question is not only applicable to lemons, but to all fruit that is harvested from trees. To answer this question requires a look at a variety of factors.
One possibility is that the lemons are over-ripe and will simply drop from the tree. This is especially true if the tree is grown in an area with abundant sunshine and little rainfall. Over-ripeness causes the fruit to become softer and therefore heavier, making them more likely to fall.
Another reason why lemons might fall off the tree is if there is too much wind. Trees sway more in windy conditions, and this can result in ripe lemons being forcibly removed from their branches. This is especially true if the tree is large and has many branches. In such cases, gusts of wind are more likely to cause lemons to shake off.
It is also possible that the tree is overloaded with fruit. Lemons that remain on the branches for too long will become heavy and due to gravity, will be more likely to fall off. This is especially true if the tree is filled with ripening fruit or if the soil isn’t well cared for and doesn’t provide adequate support for the branches.
Finally, it is possible that the lemons are falling off because of pest infestations. Insects, such as mealy bugs, can cause the lemons to become weak and fall off. If you suspect this is the case, inspect the tree for signs of infestation and take necessary action.
Other Reasons Lemons May Fall Off Tree
Other than reasons already mentioned, there are a few other scenarios that can lead to lemons falling off the tree. Factors such as the water supply, humidity levels and the age of the tree can all contribute to the lemons falling off their branches.
In terms of water supply, a tree that is irrigated too often or not often enough may lead to lemons falling off prematurely. It is essential for a lemon tree to get the right amount of water, as it needs to be well hydrated yet not too wet. If it is over-irrigated, the fruit may become heavy and weak, leading them to be more prone to falling off before they are ripe.
Humidity is also important as it impacts the lemons’ ripening process. If the humidity is too low, the fruit will not be able to stay on the tree long enough to fully ripen, and will therefore fall off prematurely. On the other hand, if the humidity is too high, the fruit may become too heavy and drop due to gravity.
Lastly, the age of the tree itself can affect whether or not the lemons will fall off. Young lemon trees are more likely to be topped heavy, as the production of fruit outstrips the growth of the tree. If the weight isn’t balanced out properly, the fruit will eventually become too heavy and drop.
Consequences Of Lemons Falling Off Tree
The consequences of lemons falling off the tree can be quite severe, especially for commercial lemon farmers. Not only do the farmers lose potential profits from the fruit, but they also risk potential damage to their trees. If the lemons are not harvested in time, they can become too heavy and cause branches to snap off.
Heavy winds will also exacerbate the problem, as the fruit can be whipped off the branches and cause damage to neighbouring trees and other plants in the vicinity. This is especially true with larger trees and branches, as the fruit may be flung at high speeds and cause considerable damage.
In the worst case scenario, the tree may be completely stripped of fruit while still in its early stages of growth. This can stunt the tree’s growth, reduce its overall yield and set back its development, costing the farmer large amounts of money.
Finally, pest infestation can potentially devastate an entire harvest. If the tree is left unattended for too long, the pests can spread to neighbouring trees and cause them to fall off prematurely. This not only reduces the yield of the current season, but sets back growth for future harvests.
Preventing Lemons From Falling Off Tree
The best way to prevent lemons from falling off the tree is by understanding the various factors that contribute to fruit falling and taking the necessary steps to mitigate them. Regular irrigation is key, as the tree should be hydrated properly and not be overexposed to water.
Tree pruning is also essential, as it helps balance the weight of the tree. This is especially important for young trees, as they tend to be top-heavy in their early stages. Pruning gets rid of the extra weight and helps keep the tree balanced.
Managing pests is also important, as this can significantly reduce the amount of fruit that falls off. Monitor the tree for signs of infestation and if spotted, take prompt action to control the pests.
Finally, the use of protective gear is recommended. This can come in the form of mesh covers or mesh netting, which are placed around the tree to protect it from wind and other external factors. This is especially helpful during strong winds and storms.
How To Maximize Yield From Lemons
Yielding the maximum number of lemons from a tree requires careful monitoring and management of various factors. Fertilizing is key, as the tree will require certain elements to be present in the soil in order to produce the best yields.
It is also important to keep an eye on the pruning process to ensure that the tree is balanced enough for optimal yields. If the tree is too top-heavy, pruning the excess weight should be done as soon as possible.
Monitoring the pest activity is also essential, as any pests that attach themselves to the tree can potentially reduce its overall yield. If signs of pest colonies appear, take prompt action to control them and avoid further damage.
In terms of irrigation, focus on providing the tree with enough moisture but not too much. The idea is to ensure that the tree is well watered, but not submerged in water, as this will most likely reduce the overall yield.
Finally, use protective gear to help keep the tree safe and avoid wind damage. Mesh covers and netting can protect the tree from high wind speeds and make sure that the fruit doesn’t get knocked off the branches.
Conclusion
Lemons falling off the tree is a common problem that can be mitigated with proper management. By understanding the various factors that can lead to falling lemons, and taking the necessary steps to address them, the yields from the tree can be optimized significantly.
