Lemon Tree Dropping Leaves - Knowledgebase Question

CHICAGO, IL
Avatar for k103
Question by k103
January 4, 2006
My Monrovia Lemon tree is dropping leaves and looking sad. Is this common at this time of year, or is there something I should do. My wife is transplanting it as I type this. Please let me know.
thanks


Image
Answer from NGA
January 4, 2006
Leaf drop is a common condition with citrus trees. It is also common when plants have been outside during moderate weather and then are brought indoors for the winter. The sudden change in conditions is a "shock" to the plant and a typical response is for it to drop leaves. Keep your tree in as bright a location as possible, but away from drafts, heating vents, etc. Water slowly and deeply so water runs out the drainage holes, to leach away salts. Fertilize monthly with a citrus fertilizer (if you can find one), or a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10. Your tree may not seem vigorous indoors during the winter, but it should perk up again next year. Note that citrus are extremely frost tender, so don't put it outdoors too soon! (Or, put it out during the day but bring it in at night.) Also, it's a good idea to acclimate any plant to a sudden change in conditions, moving it in stages. Hope this info helps!

You must be signed in before you can post questions or answers. Click here to join!

« Return to the Garden Knowledgebase Homepage

Member Login:

( No account? Join now! )

Today's site banner is by mcash70 and is called "Queen Ann's Lace"

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.