Are you eager to grow a thriving lemon tree in your garden? Well, before you get your hands dirty, it’s important to understand the lemon tree growth stages.
This knowledge will ensure that you can nurture your tree to its full potential and reap the sweet rewards of its bountiful fruit.
Don’t worry though, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll guide you through each stage of the lemon tree growth process, from seed to fruit-bearing.
Post Contents
Basic Information about Lemon Tree:
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Plant | Lemon Tree |
| Scientific Name | Citrus limon |
| Native Region | Southeast Asia |
| Growth Habit | Evergreen tree |
| Fruit | Yellow citrus fruits |
| Harvesting Season | Year-round |
| Culinary Uses | Juice, zest, flavoring in recipes |
| Health Benefits | Rich in vitamin C, aids digestion |
| Flowering Season | Spring |
Note: You can also watch this detailed video guide on Growing lemons:
Let’s take a look at lemon tree cultivation. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
The Germination Process:
When you sow the seeds in the soil that’s where the growth stages of your lemon tree start. The first step of tree growth is the germination of the seeds. The germination stage of the tree is the earliest stage and the plant growth starts at this point.
Moreover, this is the time the seeds will grow some small tiny roots and tiny green leafy leaves. These are the small leaves that are called the first sprouts of a plant.
Young Seedling:
Moving on to the second stage of lemon tree growth. This is the seedling phase. In this stage the lemon tree has grown a little bit but it is still a small plant with some sprouted roots and a few small leaves. The stem of your plant is still very soft.
Always watch out for animals and strong winds because they can easily break the young stems. You can consider covering your young plants with some sort of cover.
Always ensure that you water your young plant regularly. Ensure more than normal watering routine when it is too hot. During this stage of the lemon tree it is recommended to cultivate the soil near the seedling and for more proper growth you can apply the pre-fertilizer.
We did the above process because this will allow your seedling to grow well and survive when transplanted to its permanent location like a garden. Till now you should keep your plant in a pot or a planting bed. Transfer your plant to a bright and vibrant area because the best location for growing lemons is one with full sun.
Related article: Garlic Growing Stages (Here’s How Garlic Grows)
Mature Lemon Tree:
So this is the stage that will make you feel the joy of growing a lemon tree as In this stage, your lemon tree will surely look like a mature plant. If your plant has successfully reached this stage then normal care will be needed. At this stage the plant will have stronger stems and more hard leafy leaves.
If you desire a healthy lemon tree, you should always ensure that it gets enough sunlight, water, and fertilizer. At this stage, normal but regular care is required if you want your plant to bear healthy fruits.
Ensure to water your lemon tree a lot. Along with this fertilize your tree a lot, this will cause it to bear more flowers, and therefore, more fruits.
Flowering Stage:
At this specific point your lemon tree will start to bloom. A 2 to 5 years old lemon tree will be able to do this. Flowers will be white and smooth.
At this stage Water regularly but avoid overwatering the tree. Usually trees don’t require watering but still water is essential. Along with this Use organic fertilizer, too.
Be sure that no pests attacks occur. Usually lemon trees are prone to worms. So look out for them.
Fruiting Stage:
Now this is the stage you all are anxiously waiting for. You’ll see yellow lemons hanging at the tree for the first time. The lemon fruits are green when young. Afterwards It will become dark green and yellow. And that’s when it is ripe. This is the stage when you have to start regular and precise care again.
Harvesting the Fruit:
Now the lemon fruits are ready for harvesting. The lemon fruit is green to yellowish and has smooth skin. Slowly pluck off the fruits from the tree. Don’t damage the lemons and the tree by doing this harshly.
Read More: Cucumber Plant Stages of Growth (How it Grows?)
Drying Stage:
The last stage of the life cycle of a lemon tree is when the lemon tree fruits will turn brown and begin to dry if not harvested. This will be the last fruit of the season. Not to worry, your lemon plant will surely bear fruits again.
After a few years of fruiting your lemon tree will also start decaying. At this point we recommend preparing some lemon tree seeds and growing a new tree. By the time your current lemon tree completely decays you will have a new tree to start caring for.
FAQs about Lemon Tree Growth Stages:
What is the size of a one year old lemon tree?
Through proper care a lemon tree can grow up to 1-2 Ft in one year.
How much time does the tree take to bear fruit?
When grown in suitable warm conditions, lemon trees will grow up to 20 feet. They usually take six years to bear fruit.
Which fertilizer is most suitable for a lemon tree?
The best fertilizer for lemon trees is available with the name tag of citrus fertilizer. Using this fertilizer will help the plant grow nicely.
Why does my lemon tree have flowers but no fruit?
If the plant grows flowers but fails to fruit. The one and only reason this might be happening is because the tree is not old enough
Conclusion:
We hope that you found this article useful as we tried to cover all the points related to lemon tree growth stages.
Moreover we discussed what are the needs of the tree during these specific stages.
Be sure to plant a lemon tree, and enjoy the homemade lemonades afterwards.
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