Growing Lemon in Pots

November 2022

Sour lemons add flavor to every type of dish. They are known for their refreshing flavor.

Do you want to plant a lemon tree, but lack of space is preventing you? If this is the case, then planting a lemon tree pot is an excellent choice. You can place your lemon plant on the balcony, terrace, or even indoors. And you'll be rewarded by its fragrant flowers and delicious citrus fruit.

Best Lemon Tree Varieties to Grow in Pots

If you want to grow lemons from seed, it would take a lot of time to produce fruits. Choose dwarf varieties from a local nursery, which is healthy. Opt for plants that are at least 2-3 years old, if you don't want to wait for the plant to start producing flowers and fruits.

Growing Lemon

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Tips to Grow Lemons in Container

1. Container

If you want to grow lemon trees in pots, choose a container that is 25 percent larger than the root system of the lemon tree. Clay pots are porous and therefore a good choice to grow a lemon tree.

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2. Potting Mix

Lemon prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil in the ph range of 5.5 to 7. The soil should be sandy with good water-draining capacity. You can add aged compost or manure to the potting mix to enrich the soil.

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3. Location

Citrus trees need at least seven to eight hours of direct sunshine every day. If growing a lemon plant inside, place the pot near a sunny window where the plant can get adequate sunlight. The lemons grow well in the temperature of 15°C to 28°C. In winter, you may want to shift these plants indoors to avoid cold shock.

4. Watering

The lemon needs regular watering. Too much or too little water can be fatal to the plants, leading to flower drops and even death of the plant. Check the top layer of the soil (2 inches) before watering. They need more water during windy and sunny days.

Growing Lemon

6. Re-Potting

Re-pot your citrus trees every two to three. Winter is the right season to repot your plants.

7. Pruning

Pruning gives the plant a bushy look. Pinch off the growing tip when it is 5-6 inches long. It is best to prune during autumn or late winter. Before pruning, be sure to check for suckers and remove them immediately if they're found. Prune, dried and diseased branches, and also the branches which prevent airflow. Excess pruning can reduce fruit yield. Make sure to use good quality secateur for pruning.

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8. Fertilizer

Lemons are heavy feeders. They need a sufficient supply of fertilizers to produce a good amount of blooms and fruits.

If available, use special-purpose citrus fertilizers for every type of citrus tree. Otherwise, use slow-release fertilizers containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium: 12-6-6 or 20-20-20. Don't forget to add micronutrient-rich fertilizer to the soil. Also, add organic manure.

You can add 1-2 cups of curd or yogurt to your plant every 4-6 weeks.

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9. Pests and Diseases

Mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, and scales periodically infest the plant. Keep an eye on them. Spraying neem oil or insecticidal soap solution can help you get rid of these pests.

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10. Harvesting

The time of the harvest depends upon the variety of plants and the weather. Citrus fruits won't ripen after they fall off the trees. The heavy, soft, and bright yellow color of the fruits indicates that it is ripe.

Growing Lemon