Meyer Lemon Losing Leaves

Prized for their lemon-plus-mandarin orange-hybrid fruit, Meyer lemon trees are dwarf-sized trees often grown indoors or as small, outdoor specimens. Leaf loss is not a serious problem and can be remedied by controlling environmental factors.

Temperature

The Meyer lemon tree needs a cool environment to thrive, or leaf loss can occur, according to Oregon State University. The website MeyerLemonTree.com recommends 55 degrees at night and up to 70 degrees during the day for optimum growth. Temperatures do not fall below 54 degrees, as that can cause the tree to grow dormant.

Overwatering

Overwatering, which causes premature leaf drop, leaf yellowing and internal root damage, is another common problem with Meyer lemon trees. The website Guide-to-Houseplants.com recommends watering the Meyer lemon tree when the uppermost surface of soil is dry. This prevents excess standing water. Use a potting soil that has good drainage for optimum results.

Salt Burn

An excess of salt in the Meyer lemon tree's soil can cause leaf drop, yellowing and discoloration on the stems and margins of the leaves. To remove the damaging salt in the soil, switch to a fertilizer with less salt content, and leach the soil to remove any remaining traces of the salt.

References

• Oregon State University: Meyer lemons can be grown in PNW if protected from winter
• MeyerLemonTree.com: Growing Your Indoor Lemon Tree
• Texas A&M University: Diagnosis of common citrus problems
• Guide-to-Houseplants.com: Meyer Lemon Tree

Resources

• Citrus Tree Care
• National Gardening Association