If you’re looking for a citrus tree that can be grown in a pot and will provide an abundance of fruit, then you can’t go wrong with the lemon.
Lemons are not only a delicious addition to any dish, but they also have a host of health benefits.
Best of all, they’re relatively easy to grow, even for those without a green thumb.
Lemons need warm conditions and lots of sunlight to grow well. Choose a sheltered area or a sunny window if in cool areas. Terracotta pots and well drained soil are best for lemons which can take up to 6 years to become productive in good conditions.
Choose the right container and soil
The first step to successfully growing lemons in a pot is to choose the right container and soil.
When it comes to containers, it’s important to select one that is at least 18 inches wide and 20 inches deep.
This will give your lemon tree enough room to grow and prevent it from becoming rootbound.
As for soil, it’s best to use a light potting mix that is well-draining.
You can also add some organic matter, such as compost or manure, to help improve drainage even further.
Prepare your container before planting
Once you’ve selected the perfect container and soil, it’s time to prepare your pot before planting.
To do this, simply fill your container with soil until it is about two-thirds full.
Then, water the soil thoroughly and allow it to drain completely before adding your lemon tree.
This will help settle the soil and prevent compaction when you go to add your tree.
Climate
The first thing to keep in mind is that lemon trees need a lot of sun, your lemon tree will need 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight every day.
If you live somewhere that gets hot summers then consider an area that gets some shade in the afternoon.
If you live in an area with limited sunlight, you may want to consider growing your tree in a south-facing window.
Another option is to invest in grow lights so that your tree gets the 12-14 hours of sunlight it needs each day.
Looking after your lemon tree
Lemon trees are generally pretty low-maintenance as long as they’re getting enough sun and water.
However, they will need occasional fertilizer during the growing season – about once every 6 weeks or so should suffice.
Be sure to use a fertilizer specially formulated for citrus trees and follow the directions on the package carefully so that you don’t overdo it.
Pests and diseases
Pests are also something to watch out for when growing lemon trees.
The most common pests include aphids, scale insects, mealybugs, and whiteflies – all of which can be controlled with regular applications of insecticidal soap or neem oil .
If you notice any pests on your tree, simply spray them off with a hose or remove them by hand using gloves (be sure to dispose of them away from your lemon tree).
Fertilize your lemon tree regularly
Lemon trees are heavy feeders and will need to be fertilized regularly in order to produce bountiful fruits.
For best results, use a fertilizer specifically designed for citrus trees and follow the directions on the label carefully.
It’s important not to over-fertilize your lemon tree as this can lead to leaf burn or other problems.
As a general rule of thumb, you should fertilize your lemon tree about once a month throughout the growing season.
Water your lemon tree appropriately
Lemon trees are drought tolerant and can withstand periods of dryness without too much trouble, however, they will produce more fruit if they are given consistent moisture.
To ensure that your lemon tree has enough water, check the top few inches of soil each week using your finger or a small shovel.
If the soil feels dry, water deeply until water begins flowing out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the container.
However, if the top few inches of soil feel moist or damp, then your lemon tree likely doesn’t need any additional water at that time.
Harvesting your own lemons
Finally, when it comes down to harvesting those delicious lemons , it takes a while – anywhere from 2-6 years after planting before your tree will bear fruit.
However, once those lemons start coming in , you’ll be able to enjoy them for years to come.
With proper care, lemon trees can live for 10-15 years or more.
Final Words
Lemon trees are great for both indoor and outdoor gardens and can provide an abundance of delicious fruit for many years.
However, like all plants, they do require some care and attention in order to thrive.
By following the tips in this guide, you can be sure that your lemon tree will be healthy and productive for years to come.
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