{"id":24006,"date":"2024-01-11T08:06:00","date_gmt":"2024-01-11T06:06:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.branchthetree.com\/?p=24006"},"modified":"2024-01-11T08:06:00","modified_gmt":"2024-01-11T06:06:00","slug":"how-to-take-care-of-lemon-tree-in-a-pot","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.branchthetree.com\/how-to-take-care-of-lemon-tree-in-a-pot\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Take Care Of Lemon Tree In A Pot"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Taking care of a lemon tree in a pot is relatively easy, but it does require that some basic rules are followed. Firstly, you must ensure the lemon tree consistently has access to sunlight. When selecting a pot for your lemon tree, make sure it is big enough to allow the tree roots to breathe and spread in a healthy way. It is important to pick a container with drainage holes at the base, and ensure it drains well. Secondly, you should use a potting mix that is formulated especially for citrus trees. Giving your lemon tree regular fertilization is also important. During the growing season, which normally runs from late spring to late summer, apply citrus fertilizer once a month. Thirdly, lemon trees are fairly drought-tolerant, but regular watering is still important. Make sure the soil stays consistently moist, but never soggy. The water needs of the tree will vary against the weather conditions and the size of the pot. Trees in large containers should be watered every two or three days, while smaller pots may need to be watered daily. Fourthly, pruning your lemon tree is essential to maintain its health. During the early winter or late summer, prune away any suckers that appear from the main trunk. Also, take away any dead or diseased branches, while light shaping of the tree is advisable during spring. <\/p>\n

Lemon Tree Care Tips <\/h2>\n

For optimal health of a lemon tree, there are several tips to take into consideration. Firstly, it is important to place the pot in an indoor position where it will receive the adequate amount of sunlight each day. Also, make sure the lemon tree receives a minimum 8 hours of light every day. Secondly, it is important to make sure the potting soil you provide is light, well-draining, and organic. Add additional organic matter, such as compost, to provide extra nutrients and oxygen. Thirdly, check the pH level of the soil. A slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal for lemon trees. If the soil is not acidic enough, mix in compost or add small amount of sulfur to reduce the pH. Fourthly, over-watering lemon trees can lead to root rot. Therefore, it is important to check the soil’s moisture levels before watering by either touching the soil or using a moisture meter. Fifthly, pests can affect the health of the lemon tree so regular checking is necessary. If pests such as scale, mealybugs, and mites are found, wipe them away with cotton swabs dipped in soapy water. <\/p>\n

Advices on Fertilizing Lemon Trees<\/h2>\n

Fertilizing is an important step when taking care of a lemon tree. Firstly, in early spring, apply one handful of fertilizer suitable for citrus plants. During the growing season and fruit-setting stage, apply additional fertilizer every 8 weeks, or consult professional advice. Secondly, it is important to use an organic citrus plant fertilizer. Nitrogen- and potassium-heavy fertilizers are best for lemon trees and you should avoid those with too much phosphorus. Thirdly, when applying fertilizer, water the soil before so that the fertilizer doesn’t burn the roots. Dilute the recommended amount of fertilizer with enough water until it is the consistency of heavy cream. Fourthly, use a rotary spreader if applying granular fertilizer to the ground around the pot. Spray liquid fertilizer all over the top of the soil, ensuring each area gets the recommended dosage. Fifthly, never fertilize a dry lemon tree, as this will cause stress and damage the roots. <\/p>\n

Pruning your Lemon Trees<\/h2>\n

Pruning is also essential for lemon tree care. Firstly, pruning your lemon tree helps maintain its shape and size, as well as remove dead limbs, crossed branches, and other unwanted ones. Secondly, it is important to sharpen your pruning tools with a file before using them. Thirdly, remove thin and weak branches, as close to the trunk as possible so that you don’t leave stubs behind. Fourthly, when pruning, make sure you cut off small amounts of the branches at a time and keep the cuts clean. Fifthly, always reduce a large branch size in a single step. This helps avoid damage to the remaining stem and removes less of the tree’s resources. Lastly, it is important to remove dead wood as soon as you notice it and always follow the tree’s natural shape.<\/p>\n

Protecting Lemon Trees from Diseases<\/h2>\n