Many people choose to plant Meyer lemon trees but don't know how to grow them to completion. Here's how to get the most out of your Meyer lemon tree planting.
Meyer lemons are a sweeter lemon that is originally from China and was brought to the United States sometime in the early 20th century by Frank Meyer, giving the plant his namesake. This fruit taste like a combination of the regular lemons we are familiar with and mandarin oranges. Since it is sweeter many people like to add fresh slices to their salad or dessert, and growing the tree is a perfect way to have access to the fruit whenever it's needed for a recipe.
Many people choose to plant Meyer lemon trees but many don't know how to grow it to completion. Find out how to get the most out of your planting.
1. Sunlight
When it comes to citrus fruit trees, the more sunlight, the better. When planting the tree try and give it as much indirect sunlight as possible. If the Meyer lemon tree is in direct sunlight it can burn your plant and it won't be able to thrive.
If the tree is going to be potted and remain indoors, place it in a sunny window or use one warm and one cool grow light bulb if the window is not an option. Check out these Meyer lemon tree indoor care tips for more information.
2. Soil Type
Although Meyer lemon trees can grow in just about any soil, they do best in a loamy or sandy loam type soil. Make sure to fertilize your tree with a high nitrogen fertilizer often between the months of April and September so they continue to receive all the nutrients they need.
If you are planting at home add lime to increase the pH level of the soil or sulfur to lower it if it's too acidic. Also, be sure to make sure there is ample drainage.
3. Proper Watering and Temperature
The Meyer lemon tree grows best when the soil remains moist, but be careful to not over saturate it. One way to make sure you are maintaining a good amount of moisture is by sticking your finger into the soil. If you can feel dampness at your fingertip then it has enough and you can wait to water it more. If it's dry, add water until you can see it running out of the pot or until you can feel the dampness at your fingertip if planted.
Meyer lemons grow best when the temperature is around 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If you live in a cooler area, or during the winter, bring your tree indoors when the temperature dips below 50 degrees and if it is planted, cover it with a blanket to protect it as best you can.
4. Potting
When potting your Meyer lemon tree, make sure the container is at least five gallons and 12 to 15 inches in height. Fill the pot halfway with soil and loosen up the roots of the tree if they are stuck together from their previous pot. Place the Meyer lemon tree into the container and then finish filling the pot with soil leaving just the top of the roots showing.
Press the soil down around it firmly and give it enough water to keep the soil moist.
5. Harvesting your Meyer Lemon Trees
Your Meyer lemons will be ready to pick when the skin of the fruit is the same yellow as egg yolk and is soft to the touch, that's how you will know if it's juicy. Do not pull the fruit off the plant because you do not want to risk damaging the tree, instead use a knife or scissors to cut it from the branch.
If your Meyer lemon tree is grown inside the house, it may take an entire year for the fruit to ripen. Be sure not to remove the fruit before it is ready because citrus fruits need to remain on the tree to ripen.
Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labor
Meyer lemon trees create some of the most delicious tasting lemons which a great for a variety of different meals and recipes. We hope you enjoy them as much as we do. If you would like more information or tips on growing Meyer lemons or other citrus fruits, please visit our blog.
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