Lemon (Container Grown) Growing Guide

Citrus limon

Lemon (Container Grown)

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Free-draining potting compost. When growing dwarf lemons in containers, avoid potting composts that contain wetting agents.

Position

A sheltered spot in full sun; grow in a frost-free spot under cover from autumn to early summer in cooler areas.

Frost tolerant

No. Grow at temperatures above 7°C (45°F).

Feeding

In spring, summer and autumn feed with a high nitrogen organic fertiliser. Fertilise more if you see yellowing leaves.

Companions

Lemons and other citrus are heavy feeders that resent close company, so companion plants have to be planted a little way away.

Spacing

Single Plants: 60cm (1' 11") each way (minimum)
Rows: 60cm (1' 11") with 60cm (1' 11") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Grow in containers of rich compost to keep plants compact and to make it easy to bring plants indoors for the winter. Good drainage is essential. Start small plants in containers at least 30cm (1ft) wide and pot them up a size yearly until they reach mature size.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Prune in spring or summer.

Harvesting

Pick when richly coloured and fully ripe. Picking can continue for several weeks as fruits do not ripen all at once.

Troubleshooting

Grow outdoors in the warmer months to expose plants to heat and pollinators and to avoid most pests. Soft soap sprays can help against scale insects and mealybugs.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Lemon (Container Grown)