How to Plant a Lemon Tree - WikiHow

Planting a lemon tree can be a rewarding experience. Not only will you get to enjoy refreshing and healthy lemons straight from your backyard, but a lemon tree can also beautify your garden. If you’re ready to start planting your own lemon tree, read on for our step-by-step guide on how to do it right.

Choose the Right Time and Spot

The best time to plant a lemon tree is in the late winter or early spring when the soil is moist and warm from the sun. It’s also important to choose the right spot for your tree - one that gets plenty of sunlight and is protected from harsh winds. Lemon trees thrive in well-draining soil, and they prefer a pH range between 5.5 and 6.5. Make sure the soil in your chosen spot is rich in nutrients and has good drainage.

Prepare the Soil

Before planting your lemon tree, you need to prepare the soil. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and twice as deep as the root ball of your tree. Mix compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to give your tree a nutrient-rich base. Then, add a layer of topsoil over the mixture to ensure good drainage.

Plant the Tree

Now it’s time to plant your lemon tree. Gently remove the tree from its container and loosen any tangled roots. Then, place the tree in the hole and fill it with soil, making sure the crown of the tree (where the roots meet the trunk) is level with the ground. Water the tree well and mulch around the base to help retain moisture.

Care for Your Tree

Water your lemon tree regularly - it needs about one inch of water each week. During hot and dry periods, you might need to water it more often. Fertilize your tree once each season with a slow-release fertilizer. Prune your tree in late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased branches, and to shape the tree for optimal growth.

Harvest Your Lemons

After several years of growth, your lemon tree will start producing fruit. Wait until the lemons are fully ripe and have turned a bright yellow color before picking them. To avoid damaging the tree, gently twist and pull the lemons from the branches. Store them in a cool and dry place until you’re ready to use them.

With a little care and attention, your lemon tree can provide you with delicious and nutritious fruit for many years to come. Follow these steps and your lemon tree will be a beautiful addition to your garden and a wonderful source of fresh lemons for your kitchen.