Organic Lemon Trees
Lemon trees thrive in organic conditions. They are naturally resistant to most pests and diseases when grown in full sun and protected from frost, and when grown in nitrogen-rich, well-draining soil. Does this Spark an idea?
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Soil Preparation
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Grow lemon trees in soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. Amend alkaline soils with peat. Treat acid soils with lime for a temporary increase in pH.
Test your soil for proper drainage before planting lemon trees in the ground. To test, dig a hole 3 feet to 4 feet deep and fill with water. Soil with good drainage should be completely drained within 24-36 hours. To improve drainage in clay soils, incorporate compost, sphagnum peat moss and bark into the soil. To amend sandy soils, dig 6 inches of compost into the soil surrounding the planting area.
Fertilizaton
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Lemon trees require a steady source of nitrogen during the first two years of growth. After new growth appears, apply an organic nitrogen source, such as blood meal, according to package instructions monthly through October. Double the amount you fertilize the second year and double it again the third year.
Fertilize fruit-bearing trees with nitrogen just before the tree flowers and at fruiting time.
Scatter fertilizer around the tree, several feet from the tree trunk. Water it into the soil thoroughly.
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Insect Control
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Whiteflies, sap-sucking insects, commonly affect lemon trees. They appear as a cloud of small white specks when you shake the tree. Spray the tree with a strong stream of water to deter adult whiteflies. Spray neem according to package directions to kill remaining whiteflies. Ensure coverage on the underside of leaves, as this is where whiteflies typically hide.
Chewing insects, such as grasshoppers and caterpillars, occasionally damage lemon trees in the summer months. Remove weeds and debris from the growing area to eliminate shelter for pests. Grow the herb cilantro around lemon trees to repel grasshoppers. Organic pest control of chewing insects include Sabadilla or pyrethrems. Spray according to package directions.
Disease Management
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Lemon trees are susceptible to greasy spot and citrus scab. Discourage these fungal diseases organically by growing lemon trees in soil with good drainage.
Greasy spot creates spots on lemon tree leaves resembling dirty engine oil. The disease decreases tree vigor and causes premature leaf drop. To treat, remove all fallen leaves from the vicinity of the tree. Spray trees with horticulture oil or copper spray if the disease persists. Follow instructions on package.
Citrus scab creates scabs and warts on leaves, twigs and lemons. It is spread by rain and overhead irrigation. Treat citrus scab organically with copper spray according to package instructions.
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References
Resources
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