How to Plant a Meyer Lemon Tree in a Container

Nothing beats the taste of freshly picked fruit, and with a meyer lemon tree, you can enjoy that delicious flavor year-round. While Meyer lemons are a popular choice for backyard orchards, they can also thrive in containers, making them a great option for small-space gardening. Here's how to get started:

Choose the Right Container

The first step in growing a meyer lemon tree in a container is to choose the right one. You'll want a container that's at least 12-18 inches deep and has drainage holes in the bottom. Meyer lemon trees can grow up to 6-10 feet tall in the ground, but in a container, they'll typically reach 3-5 feet tall. As such, you'll want to choose a container that provides enough room for the roots to grow.

Select the Right Soil Mix

Next, you'll want to select the right soil mix for your meyer lemon tree. A well-draining, nutrient-rich potting soil will provide your tree with the essentials it needs to thrive, while also ensuring excess water can drain away. You can even add a bit of sand or perlite to the soil mix to improve drainage further.

Planting Your Tree

Once you have your container and soil mix, it's time to plant your meyer lemon tree. Start by filling the container with a few inches of soil, then place your tree in the middle of the container. Gently surround the roots with soil mix, taking care not to bury the tree too deep. It's recommended to plant the tree at the same depth it was in the original pot it came in. Add more soil around the tree, firming it down as you go, until the container is almost full.

Watering Your Tree

After planting your meyer lemon tree, give it a good watering. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. From here on, you'll want to aim to keep the soil consistently moist. Be careful not to over-water the tree, as this can lead to root rot. One good way to tell if your tree needs water is to stick your finger into the top inch of soil – if it feels dry, it's time to water.

Providing Enough Light

Your meyer lemon tree will need plenty of sunlight to grow and produce fruit. As such, it's essential to place your container in a spot that gets full sun for most of the day. If you live in a place where the weather is mild, your tree can remain outdoors year-round. If you live in an area with harsh winters, you may need to move your tree indoors during the colder months.

Caring for Your Tree

Caring for a meyer lemon tree requires a bit of effort, but the rewards are well worth it. In addition to keeping the soil and watering consistent, you'll also need to fertilize your tree regularly. A citrus-specific fertilizer can help provide your tree with the nutrients it needs to thrive. Additionally, pruning your tree can help keep it within bounds and promote healthy growth. Finally, keep an eye out for pests and signs of disease, treating any issues early on to prevent them from becoming severe.

By following these tips and caring for your meyer lemon tree properly, you'll be able to enjoy delicious, tangy fruit year-round. Growing a lemon tree in a container is also an excellent way to add a bit of greenery to your space and enjoy the many benefits of gardening, even if you don't have a yard.