Lemon tree: Sowing, planting and harvest calendar
How to plant a lemon tree?
Give your lemon tree a bright position sheltered from strong wind. Planting in the ground is mainly suitable where winters are mild enough for the chosen variety. In a colder climate, use a pot that you can move under cover before cold nights arrive. Plant in spring as the soil warms, and gradually introduce a tree raised under cover to outdoor sunshine.
The soil must allow water to drain freely. For container growing, choose a draining citrus compost and a pot with drainage holes, only a little larger than the root ball. An oversized container can remain wet around the roots for too long. Set the root ball at its original depth and keep the graft union above the soil. Water after planting and allow excess water to escape.
During establishment, check compost moisture and adjust watering to the weather and container size. Do not leave water standing in the saucer. Plan a bright, cool, frost-free winter shelter with a temperature suitable for your variety. A very warm room with dry air is less favourable. Move the tree outdoors again gradually when temperatures are suitable, allowing it to adjust to stronger light.
When does the lemon tree flower?
How do you prune a lemon tree?
How to care for this plant
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Prepare for overwintering
If your citrus spends summer outdoors in a pot, prepare a bright shelter at a temperature suitable for its variety. Follow local forecasts and move it before nights become too cold. In the ground, match protection to its hardiness and local climate.
How to optimise your lemon tree harvest?
