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How to Grow Lemon Trees in Spain

By: Bridget Kelly

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21 September, 2017

The Mediterranean climate creates a gardener's paradise. There isn't much that will not grow in Spain, from flowers to fruit crops. Spain, mainly the Murcia region, is one of the major lemon producers in the world. In fact, in the Murcia region, the average Spaniard will consume 3.3 kg lemons per year, according to the Spanish Lemon and Grapefruit Interprofessional Association. Of course, there are many microclimates in Spain, so what you can grow depends a lot upon the climate and the soil in your area. The best time to plant your lemon tree is when the temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius).

Choose a location in the garden that gets sun all day.

The Mediterranean climate creates a gardener's paradise.
Of course, there are many microclimates in Spain, so what you can grow depends a lot upon the climate and the soil in your area.

Dig a hole deep enough so that the roots of the lemon tree will be just under the surface of the soil.

Place the lemon tree into the planting hole and backfill half way with soil. Water the tree to allow the soil to settle around the roots and pat the soil down to remove any air pockets. Backfill with the remaining soil.

Water the lemon tree well, allow the water to drain and then water again. Tamp the soil around the base of the tree.

Water again in one week, for 5 to 10 minutes, and water every week after that. If the weather is particularly dry and hot, you may need to water more frequently.

Dig a hole deep enough so that the roots of the lemon tree will be just under the surface of the soil.
Tamp the soil around the base of the tree.

Fertilize the lemon tree when you see new growth. Texas A&M University horticulturists recommend applying 1/4 cup of ammonium sulfate at the sign of new growth and then three more applications of 1/4 cup every three months. In the tree's second year you should double the amount of fertilizer but keep the same schedule. Make sure that you water prior to scattering the fertilizer on the soil.