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Home » Planting & Growing

How to grow a lemon tree in a pot

Published: Jun 23, 2021 · Updated: Jun 5, 2023 · This post may contain affiliate links. We earn commission from purchases made. ·

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three healthy lemon trees growing in pots with text overlay that reads how to grow lemon trees in pots
infographic on how to grow a lemon tree in a pot
three healthy lemon trees growing in pots with text overlay that reads how to grow lemon trees in pots

Growing citrus trees used to happen just in tropical areas with the right climate. Lately, it's becoming popular to grow that lemon tree in a pot or container.

Why?

three healthy lemon trees growing in pots with text overlay that reads how to grow lemon trees in pots

Well, you can bring it inside when the weather gets colder. This means you can grow it wherever you live! Yay!

Jump to:
  • Lemon Tree Sun Requirements
  • How much water does a lemon tree need?
  • Lemon tree flowers but no fruit?
  • When should you repot a lemon tree?
  • Caring for lemon trees in winter
  • Lemon Tree FAQ

Lemon Tree Sun Requirements

Lemon trees growing in containers and pots do the best in morning sun.

It's not too harsh, but still gives them plenty of sunlight.

How much water does a lemon tree need?

This will vary depending on the season, and whether or not your tree is inside or outside.

If it's outside, you can aim for watering once a week. If the tree is inside, cut back watering to once every 10 days.

Many gardeners opt for a moisture tester for plants, but you can also use your finger to test the soil.

Lemon tree flowers but no fruit?

Most people grow lemon trees for the fruit it produces so when it's not, this can be a bummer.

If your lemon tree flowers but the flowers wilt off or turn black, typically there will be no fruit. This is because of blossom rot.

To give your lemon tree a better chance, use a 50-50 milk/water fertilizer. Pour it directly on the soil once a month in the summer to help keep your blossoms healthy.

Because lemon trees like acidic soil, sour milk is the best kind to use.

When should you repot a lemon tree?

Repotting lemon trees need to happen about every 3 to 4 years, but a good rule of thumb is if the roots are growing out of the drainage hole on your planter, it needs a bigger one.

infographic on how to grow a lemon tree in a pot

Caring for lemon trees in winter

During the winter, bring in your lemon tree. Place it near a window so that it can still get morning sunlight.

Also, invest in a good spray bottle to help add moisture to your plant. Most homes in the winter time get very dry, and your lemon tree won't like this.

Lemon Tree FAQ

Do lemon trees do well in pots?

They definitely can! With the proper sized pot, good drainage, sunlight and water, they will produce lemons and grow really well. I've had especially good luck with this lemon tree bought from Etsy.

How big should the pot be for a lemon tree?

It depends on the size of your tree, for smaller trees opt for a 12-inch pot. For larger trees with a more established rootball, look for a 24 inch pot or larger depending on the rootball.

Do lemon trees need full sun?

Yes, for the best growth place your lemon tree where it can easily receive 6-8 hours of sunlight.

You might also enjoy:

  • how to grow apple trees from seeds
  • Beginners guide: how to care for orchids
  • Steady Spring Tree Diaper Review

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Dawn Massie says

    May 23, 2023 at 5:55 pm

    I have an indoor lemon tree ..it has never bloomed and of course no fruit ? What can I do to help this ?

    Reply
    • Joanna Stephens says

      June 04, 2023 at 9:34 pm

      Hi Dawn, one of the main causes for this is not enough light. Is your lemon tree getting at least 6 hours of direct sunlight where it's located right now? If not, you might try a more sunnier location!

      Reply

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