Be aware there are often sharp thorns on the twigs of the tree.
Lemon trees are toxic to animals.
Selecting a Planting Site
Choose a well-draining spot in full sun for a lemon tree.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
There should be no standing water on the site because lemon trees do not like soggy conditions.
The site should be sheltered from wind and other natural elements.
Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
Soil
All citrus trees thrive in soil of medium texture and moderate depth with a slight acidity.
Soil that is well-drained is an absolute must as root rot is a problem in soggy conditions.
Mulching should be avoided to prevent pooling water.
Water
Getting the watering requirements right with your lemon tree is crucial for a successful harvest.
The trees prefer low to moderate rainfall.
Once mature, lemon trees develop more drought tolerance.
During the summer months, the soil should be kept moist, especially for young trees.
Be careful not to water too much, as boggy conditions are problematic.
Overwatering results in yellowing leaves, which then drop, along with fruit drop and root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
Lemon trees are best grown in warm and humid states.
They also prefer the humidity levels to be as close to 50 percent as possible.
Fertilizer
Like other citrus fruit trees, lemon trees are energy-hungry.
Use a completeNPK(nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium)fertilizerto encourage healthy growth and fruit production.
Try ‘Lisbon’ and ‘Eureka’ in zones 9 through 11.
Leave the lemons on the tree to ripen.
Like other citrus fruits, they will not ripen off the tree.
They are perfect for adding to meal recipes and even as anenvironmentally friendly cleaning option.
Pruning
The different lemon tree varieties have different growth habits, and this can impact pruning requirements.
Regardless of variety, prioritize pruning long lateral branches for fruit growth or main leaders for aesthetics.
You want a wide canopy to maximize fruit growth.
Pinch foliage to control the shape and encourage bloom.
Prune young trees to encourage good branch structure.
Semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken from late spring to early summer when a tree is in active growth.
confirm it is at least 15 inches tall.
There should be numerous drainage holes in the container.
In winter, low indoor temperatures similar to early spring will actually encourage flowering.
Return the plant indoors in September.
Lemon Growing in the Florida Home Landscape.University of Florida Extension Office.
Field Identification and Management of Greasy Spot Disease.University of Florida Extension Office.
