Container Gardening – How to Plant a Meyer Lemon Tree

A few years back, I bought a Meyer Lemon Tree.  I had always wanted one, and heard that they do well in pots–which I needed, because I would have to bring it indoors during the winter.  It’s the perfect solution if you thought you could never have fruit trees {especially citrus} because you are short on space or live in the wrong climate. Plus, good news, it’s not too late to get a lemon tree and pot it before the weather gets too hot.

Here’s how I potted mine when I got it:

First, I ordered my Meyer Lemon Tree online.  It showed up on the UPS truck, which I was a little nervous about, because I’d never ordered a tree online.  I had received a glowing recommendation about Fast Growing Trees from a friend, though, and so I gave it a whirl.

I knew I didn’t want to start with an itty bitty one. So I took the plunge and ordered a 5-6 foot tall tree and crossed my fingers. I placed my order on a Monday, and it arrived on a Friday. How’s that for fast shipping?

The tree arrived in perfect condition, and I was amazed.

Not only did the tree arrive in perfect condition, there were tons of lemon buds.

The root ball was even perfect. Seriously. I don’t think I am going to be hauling fruit trees in the back of my car anymore. This online ordering stuff is totally the way to go.

I picked up this handsome pot at the Home Depot this afternoon.

Did I mention I named my tree “Lemon” {after Tina Fey’s character in 3rd Rock}?

Once my tree was shipped, Pam over at Fast Growing Trees sent me an email with planting instructions.

Cool Container + Soil + Meyer Lemon Tree = Lemons.  Okay, they gave me a little more than that, but really that is the cliff notes, if you like the abridged version of directions.  If not, I posted the specific instructions below. 🙂

~Mavis

Look at ‘er!  Isn’t she beautiful?

Here’s the official planting instructions:

Planting in a container

Begin by selecting a container with drainage holes in the bottom.
Do not plant in containers that are too big for the tree because it makes the soil moisture levels harder to control with smaller trees.

Choose a sandy based potting medium that might contain perlite or vermiculite and is well drained.
Add water slowly to your container a make sure it is draining well.
During the warmer months when temperatures are above 40 degrees, place outside in an area with full sun. Citrus trees prefer at least 8-12 hours of direct sunlight.
Make sure to avoid shocking your tree by slowly transitioning it to less sun before you bring it inside. Place the tree in partial sun for a week or so; this helps it transition from the outdoors to indoors. Conversely place the tree in shade for a week before transitioning to outdoors in the spring.
When temperatures begin to drop below 40 degrees, bring your inside and place near a sunny window.
Citrus trees will drop their leaves if the humidity grows too low in an indoor environment – ideal humidity should be 45-50%. Use a humidifier if necessary.

Fertilizing, Mulching, and Watering
Do not fertilize until new growth appears. After, fertilize once per month between February and October.
Choose a fertilizer that is specifically suited for citrus trees. Use a fertilizer that is higher in Nitrogen, such as a 2-1-1 ratio. Follow instructions carefully on the packaging.
Do not mulch your citrus trees. This will cause mold to form on the trunk of the tree.
Give your tree frequent “deep” watering for at least the first year – 1/4 – 1/2 gallon every 5-7 days.
Water at ground level. Make sure you check the wetness of the soil at root level before watering.
Do not over-water. Allow the first two to three inches of topsoil to dry out between watering times. Check it with your finger. If it’s still wet, don’t water.