One of the more frustrating aspects of gardening is trying to understand why a Meyer lemon tree is not blooming. Lemon trees are typically quite tough, low-maintenance plants, however weather and other conditions can prevent blooming. To ensure your Meyer lemon tree is vigorous and healthy, it is important to understand some of the common causes of lack of blooms.
Firstly, the Meyer lemon tree might just not be ready to blossom. Young Meyer lemon trees, with a trunk diameter of less than two inches, are generally not ready to bloom and can take two to five years before reaching the right maturity level. During this period, decrease the amount of fertilizer given to the plant and focus more on providing the right amount of healthy soil and light. Additionally, as the Meyer lemon tree takes its time to mature, it is important to prune it periodically to get rid of unneeded branches and leaves and encourage more root growth.
Secondly, the weather conditions in the area can have a major impact on when the tree blooms. Too much heat and drought can be damaging, discouraging blooming, while excessive cold can also put a stop to the flowering process. The ideal temperatures for a Meyer lemon tree to bloom are between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Furthermore, lack of light or too much shade can prevent blooming, as the tree needs plenty of bright sunlight to flower. To get the best light possible, only plant the Meyer lemon tree in morning sun and afternoon shade.
Thirdly, incorrect fertilization can also interfere with blooming. Specifically, an overdose of nitrogen based fertilizers can produce too much foliage and inhibit blooming. Additionally, applying fertilizer to the leaves and branches instead of the ground can also be detrimental, as it can cause salt accumulation within the tree. Instead, use the appropriate fertilizer (like an 8-8-8 fertilizer) when necessary and only apply it on the ground around the citrus tree rather than on the leaves.
Fourthly, lack of pollination can sometimes prevent blooming. Make sure to give your Meyer lemon tree plenty of bees, as it needs pollen from insects for flowers to form. Planting companion flowers amongst the lemon tree can also be beneficial, as it will give the pollinators an easy source of food. Additionally, providing adequate water is also important, as it affects the amount of nectar produced and thus the number of pollinators around the area.
Health and Age of Meyer Lemon Tree
The health and age of Meyer lemon tree may also play a role in blooming. If the plant is sick, it will naturally struggle to flower, regardless of the other conditions around it. To resolve this, inspect the tree for angry signs such as leaf discolouration, dying leaves and rotted roots, and take appropriate action. Furthermore, citrus trees have a hard time blooming more than once a year, and it has been specified that Meyer lemon trees, in particular, cannot bloom as many times. Leaves and branches that are looking old and weak can also be a sign of an over-blooming lemon tree.
Soil Quality Control
Apart from health and age of Meyer lemon tree, the quality of the soil can also be an issue. Lemon trees prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic in nature. To provide suitable conditions, consider getting fertile soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 as it will make nutrients more available to the tree. Moreover, remove excess weeds and make sure to water the tree consistently, as drought is one of the major factors that make it difficult for it to bloom.
Soil Disease
Soil disease is one of the more serious issues related to lack of blooming. If the soil containing the Meyer lemon tree has a disease, the tree will struggle to stay healthy and will naturally be unable to flower. Identifying these diseases can be a difficult task, however some signs of root diseases include lesions on the roots, tenderness on the surface, discolouration and wilting of leaves. If a soil disease is suspected, contact a professional for help.
Fungal Problems
Fungal problems can also interfere with blooming. For instance, a fungal disease like citrus canker can cause the flowers of the Meyer lemon tree to abort. This disease is caused by a bacterial infection and is characterised by little pimples on the leaves, which can be accompanied by water-soaked spots. To prevent fungal problems and other diseases, avoid overwatering and make sure the Meyer lemon tree has adequate sunlight and high-quality soil. If a fungal problem is already present, treat it with a fungicide.
Bugs and Insects
Bugs and insects can also impede the flowering process of Meyer lemon trees and should be acted upon quickly. Aphids, mealy bugs and scale are some of the most common pests that can affect blooming. Look for signs of infestations such as mould on the leaves, and apply an anti-insect spray if necessary. Additionally, adding beneficial insects to the tree’s environment might be of assistance, as they will help keep pests away and provide natural pest control.
Pruning Strategies
Prune the Meyer lemon tree regularly in order to encourage healthy growth and blooming. The goal of pruning is to ensure that there is a good balance between the structural branches and the flowering branches, and this needs to take place in early spring. Additionally, older branches and leaves need to be thinned out every three years or so, as they will not be able to flourish anymore and can sometimes cause disease as well. Prune any crossed or growing branches, and focus more on the outward facing ones.
