Lemon Tree (Citrus limon)
Citrus limon • Rutaceae Family
Lemon Tree is a fragrant evergreen citrus tree that produces bright yellow, juicy lemons! This beautiful tree offers glossy green foliage, wonderfully scented white blossoms, and can fruit multiple times per year in warm conditions.
Best Propagation Method
Stem Cuttings - Faster fruiting than seeds!
More Lemon Tree Photos
In spring or early summer, take a 6-8 inch (15-20 cm) semi-hardwood cutting from current season's growth that has started to harden
Choose a healthy, disease-free branch without flowers or fruit for best results
Remove leaves on the lower half of the cutting, leaving a few leaves at the top for photosynthesis
Carefully trim off any thorns on the cutting to make handling easier
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder or gel to encourage faster root development
Fill a small pot with moist, well-draining propagation mix (half peat moss, half perlite or sand)
Insert the cutting 2-3 inches deep, ensuring at least one or two nodes are buried in the soil
Cover with a clear plastic bag or propagation dome to maintain humidity, using sticks to prevent plastic touching leaves
Place in bright, indirect light at 70-80°F (21-27°C) - avoid direct sunlight which can overheat the cutting
Keep medium slightly moist and check periodically for mold. Roots typically form in 6-12 weeks
Once strong roots develop (about 1 inch long), remove plastic cover and transplant to larger pot with standard potting mix
Light Requirements
Full sun is essential - provide at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Indoors, place in brightest spot with some direct sun.
Watering
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Let top inch dry between waterings. Avoid standing water which causes root rot.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining, fertile soil with slight acidity (pH ~6). Use potting mix with organic matter like peat. Excellent drainage is essential.
Temperature
Warm temperatures ideal: 65-85°F (18-29°C) during day, cooler nights. Cannot tolerate freezing - protect below 45°F (7°C).
Trees from cuttings fruit in 2-3 years vs 5-10 years from seeds - much faster results!
Self-pollinating flowers mean one tree can produce fruit, but hand-pollination helps indoor trees
Perfect for containers! Choose dwarf varieties like 'Meyer' lemon for indoor growing
Move potted trees indoors before frost and gradually acclimate them back outside in spring
Consistency is key - citrus hate both 'wet feet' and long dry spells, especially in containers
Heavy feeders - use citrus fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during growing season for best fruit production
Light pruning only needed - remove dead/crossing branches and wear gloves due to sharp thorns
Watch for scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites - inspect leaves regularly and treat with horticultural oil
Enjoy the fragrant white blossoms even before fruiting - they make wonderful houseplants for their beauty alone
Young trees may drop first flowers/fruits - this is normal as the tree matures and gains strength