Meyer Lemon Tree indoor - Ask Extension
I have a Meyer Lemon tree I started from seed and it’s having some trouble. The leaves are yellowing and dropping. It’s only about two years old a...
Knowledgebase
Meyer Lemon Tree indoor #872743
Asked June 12, 2024, 8:40 AM EDT
I have a Meyer Lemon tree I started from seed and it’s having some trouble. The leaves are yellowing and dropping. It’s only about two years old and in a pot on a sunny windowsill. I thought I was overwatering but it’s still dropping. I added a citrus feed to it but no luck.
Help please!!!
New Castle County Delaware
Expert Response
Lemon trees need around 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If it's simply bright indirect light or partial sun, it might not be enough. If possible, relocate your lemon tree to a south-facing window for the most direct sunlight. You can also supplement with grow lights during the winter months.
Especially for a fruit tree, underwatering can be a culprit. Citrus trees prefer their soil to be consistently moist, but not soggy. Stick your finger into the soil a few inches deep. If it feels dry, it's time to water. Water deeply and thoroughly until water runs out the drainage holes. Let the top inch or two of soil dry out before watering again.
Especially for a fruit tree, underwatering can be a culprit. Citrus trees prefer their soil to be consistently moist, but not soggy. Stick your finger into the soil a few inches deep. If it feels dry, it's time to water. Water deeply and thoroughly until water runs out the drainage holes. Let the top inch or two of soil dry out before watering again.
Hi. Thanks for the response. I have been managing the water levels pretty well and the window is a garden window with lots of light. I’m still getting yellowing leaves and they’re dropping a lot. Any other ideas?
Hi. Thanks for the response. I have been managing the water levels pretty well and the window is a garden window with lots of light. I’m still getting yellowing leaves and they’re dropping a lot. Any other ideas?
Other issues you could look for:
Ensure the pot has drainage holes. Pop the plant out of the pot and take a look at the roots- if they’re not healthy or browning, it could be overwatering causing root rot.
Look at the leaves for pests like spider mites or diseases like fungus. You can find insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays designed for use on citrus trees at most garden centers.
Meyer lemon trees are feeders, if they don't have enough nutrients, the leaves will show it first. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully, avoid over-fertilizing, which can also cause problems.
Meyer lemon trees like humidity. You can increase humidity around the plant by using a humidifier or place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
Ensure the pot has drainage holes. Pop the plant out of the pot and take a look at the roots- if they’re not healthy or browning, it could be overwatering causing root rot.
Look at the leaves for pests like spider mites or diseases like fungus. You can find insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays designed for use on citrus trees at most garden centers.
Meyer lemon trees are feeders, if they don't have enough nutrients, the leaves will show it first. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully, avoid over-fertilizing, which can also cause problems.
Meyer lemon trees like humidity. You can increase humidity around the plant by using a humidifier or place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
