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?
Well, you can bring it inside when the weather gets colder. This means you can grow it wherever you live! Yay!
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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.
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
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.
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.
Yes, for the best growth place your lemon tree where it can easily receive 6-8 hours of sunlight.
Carole poulsen says
How long does it take for seeds to develop into a tree...
Also did I have to peel the seeds first???
Kathie Mcfarland says
My lemon tree needs help. I’ve had it for 2 years and it’s about 12 inches . It receives sun during day. Lately all the leaves have been falling off. It’s watered once a week
Joanna Stephens says
Hi Kathie, there could be a couple of different causes. In the winter, you should have your lemon tree by a south-facing window as this lets it get the most sunlight. You also want to keep it away from any vents or drafty areas.
Lastly, you lemon tree will need some humidity. Lightly spray some water on the leaves twice a week especially during the winter time when your house is more likely to be dry from running the heater.
Hope this helps!
Gloria Perry says
My lemon tree is located outside in the ground. It has never had any blooms and have had it for over 5 years plus. It is planted where it receives lots of sunshine. What can I do to help produce blooms?
Joanna Stephens says
Hi Gloria, I would suggest trying a citrus tree fertilizer spike. I like the Jobe's Fruit and Citrus fertilizer spikes, because they help add certain nutrients your soil might be lacking. Hope this helps!
Dawn Massie says
I have an indoor lemon tree ..it has never bloomed and of course no fruit ? What can I do to help this ?
Joanna Stephens says
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!