It is much easier than you might think to grow a lemon tree. As long as the environment is right, the trees can thrive. Although it may take some time to get them to produce lemons, it is well worth the wait.

A lemon tree can reach its maximum height in 20-25 years. It could take 4-6 years to produce lemons. Before they can produce fruit, lemon trees must be fully developed. How fast your tree grows will depend on the type of lemon and what variety it is.

Continue reading for more information about lemon trees, how to make them thrive, and what to do to keep them healthy.

Which Lemon Tree Should You Plant?

Are you unsure which type of lemon tree to plant? There are so many options, it can be overwhelming. Let’s take a look at all the varieties available and see which one best suits your needs.

How do you decide which lemon tree variety to purchase?

This is the best way to find out if others have done it before. Take a look around your neighborhood to see if there are any lemon trees. This will let you know if you have the right conditions for a tree’s growth.

Ask your local arborist for help if you are unable to spot trees. They are experts in the local climate and plants, and can provide an informed answer.

Different lemon tree varieties require different elements in order to thrive. Trees need to have full sun, well-drained soil and a warm environment. Many varieties of lemon trees can be brought inside and planted in pots.

Some lemon trees have shallow roots. This is a good thing in certain situations. This article 6 Best Fruit Trees With Shallow Roots: Identification Guide will provide more information.

Lemon trees can grow to be quite tall so keep them outdoors if you have the option.

How Quickly Will A Lemon Tree Grow Each Year?

Every variety of lemon tree grows at a different rate. There are many options to choose from so you can find one that fits your needs.

Lemon trees typically grow between 6 and 12 inches in height each year. They can grow up to 20 feet in height, depending on their variety. It all depends on the type of lemon tree and the environment they live in.

The right conditions are necessary to allow a lemon tree to thrive each season. It will grow 6-12 inches each year if it is planted in an area with good drainage and heavy sun. It will not thrive if it sits in the shade or near a puddle all day. This can cause it to grow poorly and take much longer to produce fruit.

A variety of lemons can thrive in warmer climates, or indoors in pots. Here are some tips on how to choose the right lemon variety for your area.

How Long Does It Take To Grow A Lemon Tree?

Now you have narrowed down your search and are ready to plant a tree of lemons in your yard. What is the time it will take for fruit to develop? What type of care is it going to need?

It will take approximately 20-25 years for lemon trees to reach their maximum height of 20 feet.

If you provide the right conditions, lemon trees can be quite easy to grow. They don’t require much maintenance and can self-support themselves. You don’t have to be a skilled gardener, but you might be interested in growing a citrus tree.

When Will Lemons Arrive On Your Lemon Tree Once Fully Grown?

You are now able to see the tree in the ground.

A fully grown lemon tree will usually take around a year for fruit to appear. It is possible for a few small lemons to fall from the tree before any fruit appears. Do not be alarmed if tiny fruits begin to fall.

You can be patient while you wait for your fruits to ripen on the tree. You may believe you will soon have lemons once the fruits are on the tree. You may need to wait a while before you can get your lemons.

It can take lemons a while to mature and reach their full potential. It can take up to one year for lemons grow. Then it will take 6 to 9 months to get the fruit ready to be consumed.

When Should I Pick Lemons Off My Tree?

So you have finally got some lemons. You are now just a few steps away to adding these tangy citrus fruits to your diet after what seems like years of waiting. How do you pick the right time to pick them from the tree?

Surprised to learn that not all lemons are brightly colored when they are picked from the tree? Many of them are actually slightly greener than their cousin, the lime.

According the University of Florida you should pick lemons when they’re green and between 1 1/2 and 2 inches in size. After you have picked them, you need to cure them. This involves putting the green fruit outside at room temperature for a while and allowing it ripen. The peel becomes smoother as they ripen and the fruit is ready to be juiced.

You can store the fruit at room temperature, or in plastic bags in the fridge, until they are ready. They will keep for several weeks.

What Kind Of Lemon Tree Should I Buy?

Your first step is to determine what type of lemon tree will work in your area and climate. You might consider buying a smaller version that you can bring indoors if it gets too cold.

Citrus trees thrive at temperatures between 50-85 degrees Fahrenheit according to the University of Vermont. However, 65 degrees is their ideal temperature. You can grow a tree indoors if your winter season is not able to sustain these temperatures.

Planting lemon trees in spring is the best time. Lemon trees grown from fruit seeds can not produce lemons. It is better to buy one that is already growing. It could take many years for the seed to mature into a tree so it is better to buy a tree that is already growing.

You want strong, healthy lemon trees. They should be vibrant green and not wilted. You should also inspect the roots of the lemon tree to ensure they are strong and not rotten.

Next, you need to choose the right variety. Are you in a climate that allows you to keep your tree outside all year? Are you in an area where the tree is not viable all year? These are all important considerations when choosing the right lemon tree variety.

Let’s take a look at some examples of different lemons that you can grow.

Eureka Lemon Trees

Eureka lemons can be found all over the globe and are easy to grow for beginners. They thrive in warm climates and prefer to be outdoors.

Meyer Lemon Trees

Meyer lemons are sweeter than other lemon varieties. They produce fruit year-round, but they do not thrive in colder weather. They are great trees to grow in containers, and they can be brought inside during winter months to continue their growth.

Verna Lemon Trees

Verna lemon trees are great for keeping your lemon tree outdoors all year. This variety is similar to the eureka but only produces fruit twice per year. You may get a third crop but it is rare

Lemons are very juicy and have thick skin Don’t underestimate their size. When fully mature, it can grow to 12 feet.

Primofiori Lemon Trees

Primofiori is the best choice if you want a lemon with a high yield. The primofiori tree bears fruit all year.

It will thrive in a raised garden bed or container that can be moved easily during winter. You must trim the leaves regularly if you plan to bring it inside.

How to Plant a Lemon Tree

If you intend to keep your lemon tree outside all year, choose a spot where it can thrive for many years. You can plant your lemon tree in a container. Make sure it has good drainage. Place it in a sunny place.

A custom soil mix is recommended for citrus trees according to Clemson University. According to Clemson University, a custom soil mixture is best for your citrus tree.

You should plant the lemon tree in a container at least 2 inches larger than the container it came in. As the tree grows, it will need to be moved to a larger container.

The weather will change and your lemon tree must be brought inside. Lemons are not able to withstand cold temperatures so bring your lemon tree inside as soon as possible.

It is the same for placing it outside during warmer months. Wait until the last frost has gone and temperatures have warmed up. It is safe to bring the lemon tree outside if the temperature is stable.

It may be necessary to adjust the timeframe depending on the weather. You may also need to keep the tree inside for longer than you wish to. This may seem annoying but it is best to keep your tree in the house longer so that it doesn’t freeze. You won’t let your hard work go to waste.

Do Lemon Trees Need To Be Pollinated?

You have now chosen the type of lemon trees you want to plant, and have everything ready to go. Now you might wonder how to pollinate lemon trees.

Like most citrus trees, lemon trees are self-pollinators. They do not require pollination from another source to produce fruits. Although it is helpful to have other citrus trees around, this will not stop your tree from growing and producing lemons.

A second or third citrus tree can help boost the production of your tree. While the timeline won’t change, you might produce more fruit over time.

Keeping Your Lemon Tree Healthy

Lemon trees can be harmed just like any other plant. Lemon trees can be especially vulnerable if they are kept outside.

Planting your lemon tree in the right environment can help you avoid any pests or diseases. We cannot all be fortunate. Here are some things to be aware of when you plant your lemon tree.

Root rot is a common problem for citrus plants that are grown in containers. Root rot can happen when citrus plants are over-watered or do not have proper drainage.

Root rot can be avoided by using a pot that has strong drainage. You should also ensure that you don’t overwater your plant.

Citrus greening is another issue that may be affecting your lemon tree. An insect known as the Asian citrus pisillid first brought this issue to our attention. Although the bug is small and resembles a gnat it can do a lot of damage.

Aphids are one of the most prevalent pests in a garden. Aphids can be hard to keep away from your garden, even though it appears they will never leave. These tiny creatures can be deterred by a simple soap treatment or a neem oils spray.

You can try a product such as Natria Neom Oil Spray for Plants if soap does not work. This oil can be applied directly to plants. It will repel aphids as well as other pests.

Your lemon tree is also safe from caterpillars. Caterpillars love the leaves of the tree and can quickly go through them. Although the damage is often minor, it’s a good idea to be on guard for crawling creatures.

What Should I Do With My Lemons?

Now you have a lemonfruit. Now what? You have lemon juice. But there are many other ways to use it. Let’s look!

Lemon Blossom

You can pick up a few lemon blossoms from your tree if you’re impatient and waiting for the fruit to come.

These flowers are great for decorations and food, and they give off a wonderful scent. They aren’t edible but make a great decorative garnish while your lemons are waiting to fruit.

Lemon oil

It can be used in many ways. It can be used in baking and cooking to increase flavor and enhance the lemon aroma. It can be used in beauty products, cleaning supplies, and furniture polishes.

Lemon Rind

Secretly, the lemon rind is the best part of the lemon. It is so fragrant and gives off a wonderful flavor that will enhance any dish you prepare. It instantly elevates any dish and adds a bright, vibrant flavor.

Lemon Peel

Are you a fan of lemon jellies and lemon candies? You will love keeping the peel of the lemon around.

The white pith is attached to the lemon peel. It is rich in citric acid and pectin which are key ingredients for making marmalades and jellies.

So When Can I Enjoy My Lemons?

As you have probably noticed, there is no way to predict how long it will take to grow lemons on lemon trees. It could take one year or six years. It all depends upon many factors.

It may take up to 6 years for a tree to bear fruit if it is started from seeds. Most people start with plants that have been around for a while so they won’t need to wait as long.

Make sure your plant is in full sun with good drainage. You can treat any issues or pests near your plant with the appropriate material.

Remember that you aren’t done until your lemons appear on your tree! The fruit will take some time to grow on your tree. They will be ready once they become slightly green.

You have two options: pick them right away or allow them to ripen on the vine. You can finally enjoy lemons, no matter what you do.