How to Grow a Lemon Tree

Best Lemon Tree Varieties to Grow in Pots

Growing a lemon tree from seeds is a bad idea because it can take up to 4-5 years to produce fruits. Instead, ask local nurseries for dwarf varieties that can do well in containers.

Varieties that are most suitable for containers are Improved Meyer, Lisbon Lemon, and Dwarf Eureka. However, a lemon tree doesn’t grow too big, which means you can grow almost any variety in the pot.

Buy a healthy lemon plant that is at least 2-3 years old so that you don’t have to wait for it to start blooming and fruiting.

How to Grow a Lemon Tree in Pot

Choose a pot that is 25% bigger than the root ball of the plant. A clay pot is ideal because, unlike plastic, it is porous and evaporates water from the sides. This helps the lemon tree to grow well as it dislikes being waterlogged.

The quality and type of potting soil is an essential factor, as well. For growing high-yielding plants, use a well-draining potting mix with a lot of organic matter and aged manure.

If you’re growing a lemon tree in a balcony or any other small space, take care of its thorns, keep the plant in a corner.

Requirements for Growing Lemon Tree in a Pot

Location

All plants in the citrus family love full sun, around 7 to 8 hours of sunlight is essential. If growing a lemon tree indoors, position the pot near a window with ample sunlight. You can also substitute the lack of direct light with artificial grow lights.

Soil

Lemon does best in well-draining soil. The pH level of soil should be around 5.5 to 7 as this plant prefers slightly acidic soil to neutral soil. You can also use equal parts of garden soil, cocopeat, and compost.

Watering

The lemon tree requires consistent watering to produce healthy fruits. Giving it too much or too little water can lead to blossom and fruit drop, and sometimes the plant may die too. Check the top 2-inch layer of soil for dryness before watering. On windy and hot days, it requires more frequent watering and slightly moist soil.

Humidity

If you are growing a lemon tree indoors, it requires a certain humidity level to thrive: 50% is ideal. You can maintain humidity by placing it on a pebble tray or using a humidifier.

Re-Potting

Re-pot your lemon tree every couple of years or so at the beginning of spring (in warm climates, winter is the best season). Your pot size should be according to the scale of your tree. Avoid too large or small planters; keep in mind to use a container that is one size bigger than your previously used pot.