Lemon (Container Grown) Growing Guide

Citrus limon

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Warm, moist soil, well-enriched with organic matter. When growing dwarf lemons in containers, avoid potting soils that contain wetting agents.

Position

A sheltered spot in full sun spring to fall. In winter, plants may be moved into a greenhouse, sunroom, or heated garage

Frost tolerant

No. Grow at temperatures above 7°C (45°F). ‘Meyer’ lemons can survive modest freezes.

Feeding

In spring and summer, feed with a high nitrogen organic fertilizer. Fertilize more if you see yellowing leaves.

Spacing

Single Plants: 1' 11" (60cm) each way (minimum)
Rows: 1' 11" (60cm) with 1' 11" (60cm) row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Set out new plants in late winter or early spring. Grow in containers of rich compost to keep plants compact and to make it easy to bring plants indoors for the winter. Good drainage is essential. Start small plants in containers at least 12" (30cm) wide and pot them up a size yearly until they reach mature size.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Prune in spring or summer to shape plants, and watch for thorns. The 'Meyer' lemon is easier to grow than other types.

Harvesting

Pick when richly colored and fully ripe. Picking can continue for several weeks as fruits do not ripen all at once.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Lemon (Container Grown)

Aphids (General)

Leaf-Footed Bug

Slug

Snail

Thrips