How to Prune a Lemon Tree in Florida
Lemon trees thrive in most parts of Florida because of the warm tropical environment. However, these citrus trees are cold-sensitive and grow best in areas of Florida that don't experience freezing temperatures in the winter. Growing to heights of 20 feet or more, lemon trees are a striking ornamental that produce fragrant blossoms. Lemon trees, like other citrus tree varieties, require minimal pruning when grown in home landscapes. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Prune Florida lemon trees after the last chance of frost passes in your area and before new growth occurs on the tree. Cut any branches smaller than 2 inches in diameter with pruning shears. Make cuts at an angle on the branch close to the main branch or near the tree's trunk.
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Remove damaged limbs and prune minimally to manage the tree's size and shape.
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Prune any suckers or shoots emerging from the base of the lemon tree or on branches.
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Remove any branches on the lemon tree that touch or rub against other branches.
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Cut off any damaged, frail or diseased branches. However, wait several months after a freeze to remove any branches affected from the cold to allow the lemon tree to recover.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a pruning saw and the three-cut method to prevent damaging the lemon tree when pruning branches that are 2 inches or more in diameter. Make the first partial-cut 15 inches out from the trunk from beneath the branch; make the second cut from the top, 18 inches out, which causes the branch to split between the cuts. Make the third cut at an angle near the trunk.
Remove the least amount of branches possible when pruning a lemon tree.
Always clean your pruning equipment with alcohol after cutting diseased branches to prevent spreading the disease.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Zitronen image by leiana from Fotolia.com
