If you love the taste and aroma of fresh lemons, you don’t have to live in a tropical climate to enjoy their benefits. With some TLC, you can grow your very own indoor Meyer lemon tree. The Meyer lemon is a popular citrus fruit for anyone interested in cultivating lemon trees indoors. Not only do Meyer lemons have a tangy and aromatic taste, they also have a beautiful evergreen appearance, providing both beauty and functionality as a houseplant.
What is an Indoor Meyer Lemon Tree?
The Meyer lemon is a hybrid between a mandarin orange and a lemon. It was introduced to America from China in the early 1900s. These lemon trees are named after Frank Meyer, the plant explorer who brought it to the United States. Growing Meyer lemons indoors allows those who live in areas with a cooler climate to have access to their refreshing flavor.
How to Grow and Care for an Indoor Meyer Lemon Tree
Choosing the Right Container
When choosing a container for your Meyer lemon tree, select one that is at least 12-18 inches wide and has drainage holes. Terra cotta, plastic, or glazed ceramic pots work well for growing citrus. Fill the pot with well-draining soil that is specifically formulated for citrus plants and ensure a depth of at least 12-18 inches. Your Meyer lemon tree prefers a slightly acidic soil pH (between 5.5-6.5 pH) to grow their best.
Choosing the Right Location
Meyer lemon trees thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Be sure to pick a location where the tree can receive sunlight for at least 8 hours per day. However, they can scorch in direct sunlight, so placing them behind a sheer curtain can protect them from too much direct sunlight. Meyer lemon trees are also sensitive to temperatures below 50°F (10°C), so make sure to keep them away from any cold drafts, air conditioners, or heaters.
Watering and Fertilizing
Provide your Meyer lemon tree with consistent moisture, making sure the soil stays evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water whenever the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot and under-watering can lead to fruit drop or stunted growth. Meyer lemon trees also like to be fed with a citrus fertilizer every three to four weeks during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning your Meyer lemon tree is essential to keep its shape, and to ensure healthy, bountiful fruit. Prune away any dead, diseased, or crossing branches when you see them. Don’t remove more than 1/3 of the total canopy in one pruning session to avoid stressing the tree. Prune your tree after it has stopped producing fruit for the season, usually in the fall or winter.
Harvesting Meyer Lemons
Meyer lemons will ripen on the tree and are ready to be harvested when they turn yellow and have a slight give to them when you press on them. Meyer lemons can ripen at different times on the tree, so be sure to check the fruit often. Once you pick your lemons, they will last up to a month if stored properly in the refrigerator.
Concluding Thoughts on Growing an Indoor Meyer Lemon Tree
Growing your Meyer lemon tree provides a sense of satisfaction from the fruit it produces, as well as a beautiful natural décor piece in your home. Meyer lemon trees are generally forgiving and easy to take care of, as long as their basic needs are met. With proper care, you can enjoy the benefits of your indoor Meyer lemon tree for years to come.
FAQs about an Indoor Meyer Lemon Tree
1. How long does it take a Meyer lemon tree to produce fruit?
It usually takes 3-5 years from the time your Meyer lemon tree was originally planted before it starts producing fruit.
2. Can I grow multiple Meyer lemon trees in one pot?
No, it is not recommended to plant multiple citrus trees in one pot. Plant each tree separately.
3. Can I grow a Meyer lemon tree from a seed?
Yes, but it will take longer for your tree to produce fruit. It is much faster to start with a young tree, either from a nursery or as a cutting from an established tree.
4. Why are the leaves on my Meyer lemon tree turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiency, or pest infestation. Check the soil moisture and apply fertilizer when needed. If the problem persists, the plant may be infested with pests which should be treated using an appropriate insecticide.
5. Can I use regular potting soil for my Meyer lemon tree?
No, regular potting soil is not formulated for citrus trees. Use a soil mix that is specifically formulated for citrus plants.
6. How much light does my Meyer lemon tree need?
Meyer lemon trees prefer bright, indirect sunlight for at least 8 hours a day.
7. How often should I prune my Meyer lemon tree?
You should prune your Meyer lemon tree after it has stopped producing fruit for the season, usually in the fall or winter. Prune any dead, diseased, or crossing branches when you see them. Don’t remove more than 1/3 of the total canopy in one pruning session to avoid stressing the tree.
8. Can I grow a Meyer lemon tree outdoors?
Meyer lemon trees can grow outdoors, but they thrive best in warm climates. They can be grown indoors to keep them warm and protected during the cooler months.
9. What pests and diseases should I watch for on my Meyer lemon tree?
Common pest problems for Meyer lemon trees include spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Common diseases include root rot, citrus canker, and powdery mildew.
10. Why are the tiny fruit on my Meyer lemon tree falling off?
Fruit drop can be caused due to irregular watering, low humidity, nutrient deficiency, or over-fertilization.
With these tips and some patience, you will be able to grow and care for your very own indoor Meyer lemon tree, bringing fresh citrus fruit into your home and leaving your surroundings smelling beautiful.
