Meyer lemon
Place the tree, fill in around the tree with the same soil you took out when initially digging the hole. You don’t need to add anything to the planting hole. When planting, dig a hole for each tree that is three times as wide as the root ball but just as deep. You will need the length of the area of planting to estimate the number of trees you need. First, measure the area where you would like to plant your hedge or row. This is a large landscape tree and as such, requires a bit of planning before planting. Physically wiping the stems and leaves afflicted by scale with a soft rag soaked in horticultural oil and neem oil can help to dislodge them. Scale insects resemble small bumps and are often mistaken for part of the tree branch. Scale insects can be a larger problem, as they excrete a sweet liquid called honeydew which attracts other insects and may encourage the growth of mildew. Aphids feed off very young trees that have not yet attracted natural predators. Mites are common, but will rarely do permanent damage to a lemon tree. Meyer Lemon Trees are hardy against disease but can attract pests that feed off the leaf sap. Alternatively, all but one lemon can be cut from a cluster when the fruits have grown to marble-size. This will direct nutrients to the fruit with the best chance of growing. When first buds form, cut off every bud in each cluster except the largest. Clear out smaller, tangled branches in order to provide good airflow. Branches that do not produce lemons should be cut back near the trunk. PruningĪ well-maintained Meyer Lemon Tree will produce fruit all year, with heaviest growth in the fall and early winter. Potted trees may dry out faster, so check for dryness frequently. Test soil with a finger and when the top inch is dry, water deeply and allow to drain well. Soil should be kept moist but not soaked.
Feed the tree at the base once a month from April through September with either a nitrogen-rich or kelp-based fertilizer.
Meyer Lemon Trees do best in loamy soil (high sand and low clay content) at a pH level of 5.5 to 6.5. Add peat moss mixed with potting soil and perlite, then plant the tree in the center. Line the bottom of the new pot with loose stones for drainage. Gently remove the tree from the container and loosen matted roots. For dwarf varieties, keep in the original pot. Transplant the tree to a well-draining pot one size larger than the original container. Choose a location that receives up to 12 hours of sun daily. Meyer Lemon Trees can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11.