How to Plant a Dwarf Lisbon Lemon Tree
The dwarf Lisbon lemon tree (Dwarf Lisbon) grows to a moderate 8 to 12 feet with an equal spread at maturity. This edible citrus tree produces deep green foliage that gives way to small white flowers that bloom in the spring. Healthy dwarf Lisbon lemon trees yield a year-round harvest when planted in full sun within USDA Hardiness Zones 9 and 10. Newly planted dwarf Lisbon trees begin developing fruit within three years of planting. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Pitchfork
- Lime or peat moss
- Garden hose
- Soaker hose
- Fertilizer
- Pruning tool
Instructions
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1
Prepare the soil for planting using a pitchfork, breaking up large chunks of earth and removing stones and debris. Dwarf Lisbon prefers planting in soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5, so you will need to test the soil to determine the pH prior to planting.
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2
Amend the soil if necessary. Mix lime in soil with a pH below 6.0 or peat moss for soil with a pH above 6.5. Add the required amendment per label instructions.
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3
Dig a hole for the dwarf lemon equal to the height of its nursery container and twice its width. Remove the dwarf Lisbon lemon tree from the container, leaving attached soil intact. Set the tree in the center of the hole.
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4
Check that the graft union (transition between roots and trunk) is above the soil line. If not, add more soil to the bottom of the hole to raise the tree. Fill the hole with water from a garden hose and backfill. Pat the soil around the tree to remove air pockets.
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Supply the dwarf Lisbon lemon tree with deep, weekly waterings from a soaker hose. Run the hose for 30 to 60 minutes at a time, maintaining moist soil to a depth of 1 inch at all times. Twice weekly waterings may be necessary during dry weather.
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6
Apply an all-purpose fertilizer to the soil around the dwarf lemon after the first year of planting. Follow the packaging instructions for allocation amounts. Most dwarf varieties prefer fertilizing in early spring before new growth begins.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a pruning tool to remove dead or damaged branches whenever necessary.
Do not soak the soil around the dwarf Lisbon lemon tree. Overwatering can rot the roots and eventually kill it. Check the soil before each watering. If the soil feels moist at a 1-inch depth, do not add more water.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit lemons and lemon tree image by jc from Fotolia.com
