- Lemon trees may have origins in India, so they require the warm temperatures of that region, with either high or low humidity. They can grow in many types of soil but good drainage is crucial to the production of healthy fruit. The soil at the planting site should be mounded higher than surrounding soil to prevent root rot in plants, according to Texas A&M University horticulturist Julian W. Sauls. Remove all weeds and grass from the drip-line under the tree to prevent competition for water and nutrients. Do not fertilize the tree until new growth appears, then apply ammonium sulfate 21-0-0 split up into three or four applications during the growing season. Protect from cold with tarps or blankets as needed. Protect from cold winds with windbreak plantings.
- Lemon trees do not require cross-pollination to set fruit, though the trees are often visited by honey bees and other insect varieties. Flowers may be solitary or in clusters, with white on the upper surface and purple on the underside. The time from flowering to harvest is approximately four to 12 months, depending on the type of fruit, cultivation practices and ambient temperature, according to University of Florida horticulturist Jonathan H. Crane. Not all flowers will produce fruit.
- Lemon trees thrive best in a soil pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Fruit production requires a large amount of water, so irrigate the lemon trees deeply and slowly. Lemon trees may develop iron deficiency, with paling of the leaves and green veins. Adding iron sulfate at a rate of 1/4 to 1 oz. per tree will help alleviate the condition. Water the tree generously after application. Monitor trees for pest problems and apply horticultural oil or a chemical pesticide recommended by your local agricultural extension for your area.
- Young trees generally begin producing fruit in the third year. Fruit produced in different temperatures will vary slightly in shape. Fruit produced in summer or fall will be more rounded while those produced in winter and early spring will be more oval in shape. Fruit produced in humid, tropical conditions will be larger and juicier than those grown in drier, more Mediterranean conditions. When mature, lemons on the tree will turn yellow. This indicates that the fruit is juicy enough for harvesting. Mature lemons store well on the tree for months.
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