Lemons, which are known botanically as Citrus limon, are a type of fruit that can easily be grown at home. Continue reading to learn the basics of growing lemons as well as common mistakes to avoid along the way.
Best Time to Plant Lemons
This will depend largely on your local climate, but as a rule of thumb, begin to plant the lemon seeds in late fall or early spring, using container-grown trees. This is the best time to ensure that the seedlings survive the weather.
To check when lemons are most likely to thrive in your area, see the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If you live outside the US, do a quick search for ‘plant hardiness zone + [city]’.
How to Plant Lemons the Right Way
There are a number of things to consider that will help you avoid some of the common mistakes of growing lemons in your home garden.
Often overlooked, your soil can have a huge impact on how well your lemons grow. Generally, your soil should be well-drained and fertile. Soil PH levels should be around 6.0 to 7.0.
12-25 feet apart in rows 15-20 feet apart, depending on the rootstock. 12-25 feet apart in rows 15-20 feet apart, depending on the rootstock. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of about 24-36″. For each plant, be sure to sow at least a few seeds to ensure that at least one of them will germinate.
Begin thinning your lemon seedlings 12-25 feet apart when trees are 1-2 years old, depending on the rootstock.
How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Lemons
The amount of sunlight is another key to a successful harvest. Too much sunlight will dry out your lemons. Not enough sunlight will stunt your its growth or even kill it.
Ideally, your lemons should be getting full sun, which means as much sunlight as you can possibly give it, or at least 6 hours or more.
How Much to Water Lemons
As you’ve figured by now, a lot can have an impact on how well your lemons do, and the amount of water is no different.
Ideally, the soil should be damp to touch; not soggy or bone dry. If the leaves on your lemons begin to change colors or start to look droopy, you need to adjust how much water you’re giving it.
Unfortunately, if you give it too much or too little water, you can kill it, so it’s best to just keep an eye on it and water as needed.
How Long Does it Take Lemons to Germinate and Grow?
Now the fun part begins and you get to watch your lemons grow.
It takes approximately trees do not need to germinate to germinate, and a total of 3-6 years for fruit production from seed to harvest.
When to Harvest Lemons
The best time to harvest your lemons is when lemons are fully colored, firm, and separate easily from the tree.
Lemons can grow up to about varies by variety, typically 2.5-3.5″ diameter fruit.
What Can Lemons Be Used For?
Food Use: great for juicing, cooking, and baking.
Flavor Profile: varies by variety, from tangy to sweet and juicy to firm.
Can Lemons Grow in Pots and Containers?
Yes, you can plant dwarf varieties in 18-24″ containers. This can help control weeds and keep your plant from growing out of control.
It also gives you the flexibility to move your lemons around if you need to adjust sunlight or bring it indoors to avoid harsh weather conditions.
Are Lemons Safe for Bees?
Yes, lemons are safe for bees.
According to GreenPeace.org, bees pollinate human food crops that make up about 90% of the world’s nutrition.
Given their importance in our ecosystem and food supply, I feel it is important to note that growing lemons is bee-friendly.
