How to Select a Lemon Tree
In sunbelt areas like Florida, Arizona, and California, a lemon tree can be a valuable landscaping tree. The beautiful green foliage, bright blossoms, and fresh scent are complemented by the additional benefit of fresh lemons. Who can resist fresh lemonaid or a bowl of homegrown lemons on the table? When you're choosing a lemon tree for your yard or personal orchard, follow a couple of important guidelines to make sure you get a healthy tree. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Consider your location. Like all citrus trees, lemon trees will be most successful in warm areas that get plenty of sun. If you live in an area that gets cold weather, and freezes in the winter, choose a hardy breed of lemon that is more resistant to cold (like the Harvey lemon tree), and be prepared to take careful care of it during the winter months.
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Buy young lemon trees at licensed nurseries to guarantee that you're getting good stock. Ask employees at the nursery about the best breed of lemon for your area; certain areas will have ideal conditions for certain lemon trees.
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Check the young lemon trees carefully before you buy them. They should have smooth bark, thorny twigs, and oval leaves of dark green. The leaves and bark should appear healthy, with no holes or ragged edges. Avoid lemon trees that have weeds growing in the pots, or have roots growing out of the bottom of their pots.
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Turn the leaves of the trees over to look for bug infestations. Check for insects or egg sacs. Never buy lemon trees that have evidence of insect activity.
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Tips & Warnings
Protect new lemon trees by mulching them in the fall, regardless of where you live.
Frost can kill or damage lemon trees.
Buying lemon trees that have bug infestations will cause infestations of your entire garden.
