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Lemon tree spotty yellowing leaves #948341

Asked November 10, 2026, 4:14 PM EST

This is awesome! Thanks so much for offering this service. My lemon tree's leaves are turning yellow and falling off. This began over a year ago when I last moved the tree indoors for the winter (possibly earlier). The tree is otherwise healthy and will sprout new leaves, flower, and bear fruit. However, most energy is spent regrowing leaves and its flowering has significantly decreased. The leaves typically turn yellow in spotty patches, progressing over time to fully yellow and then fall off. The underside of the leaf has small brown spots in the center of the yellow spots. Occasionally, the outer edges of the leaf will turn dry and brown as the leaf yellows. I've treated for psyllids/scale (concentrate), spider mites (spray), and fungus (spray) to no avail. The tree seems to be stuck in a cycle of growing new leaves and losing them.

Anne Arundel County Maryland

Expert Response

Hi, 

Leaf drop, to some extent, is normal, especially when you are relocating the plant indoors for the winter, with the change in environment. 

Is it receiving at least 6 hours of strong sun a day? Is it placed near a drafty window or a heating/cooling vent?

Why are you treating it for scale, mites, and fungal issues? We don't see any evidence of those, so if you had those pests or disease issues in the past, it is working. To our knowledge, there isn't a fungicide registered for indoor use, so if it is needed, make sure to read the label before applying and follow the directions.

When was the last time you repotted the plant to refresh the potting soil? Do you fertilize regularly during the growing season? The plant's leaves look a little off-color to us, which could mean a nutrient deficiency. Don't fertilize now, though, heading into winter. Some nutrient deficiencies can cause the small, stippled-looking marks that can be confused for a leaf disease. 

You can review our webpage on Growing Dwarf Citrus for more care information. 

Feel free to respond to these inquiries, and we will try to help narrow down some maintenance tips to help you get more fruit.

Emily

Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied November 10, 2026, 5:01 PM EST

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