Lemon Trees

Lemon (Citrus limon) trees are among the easiest fruit trees to care for and maintain. They are also the world’s most popular acid citrus fruit. The relatively small plants are undemanding, durable and long-lasting.

Hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture planting zones 8b through 11, lemon trees are among the most cold-sensitive of all citrus varieties. They are considered easy and inexpensive trees to care for.

Lemon trees should be planted in well-draining spots in full sun. While these trees tolerate even very poor soil conditions well, they cannot endure flooding. A soil pH range between 5.5 and 6.5 is ideal for lemons. They should also be planted in the highest area that is available to avoid exposing them to cold air that accumulates in low spots. Lemon trees should be spaced at least 12 feet apart.

For hydration, these trees need regular watering to keep them healthy and maximize quality fruit production. Newly planted trees should be kept moist but not soggy until they are well established. Once they are mature, the top 1 to 2 inches of soil should dry out between waterings throughout the growing season. Watering once to twice weekly in the absence of rainfall is typically enough. Water the lemon trees lightly throughout the winter months. This helps prevent damage to roots.

For fertilizer, lemon trees require heavy feeding with synthetic products created for citrus trees. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for amounts specific to the age of the lemon tree. These amounts are often expressed as annual quantities. Divide that amount into three applications throughout the growing season (March, May, and June). It is recommended not to fertilize after August to avoid frost-sensitive growth.

Prune outdoor lemon trees in the spring and only minimally. Remove dead branches and any limbs that rub or cross each other.

Lemons should be harvested as they ripen. Citrus fruits can remain on the tree for weeks after ripening without suffering any ill effects. Allowing excessive amounts of heavy fruit to remain on your lemon tree can damage the limbs.