Planting a lemon tree in a pot and planting a garden is a combination of art and science that should not be left to chance. You are about to embark on a journey that will help you learn many things about the lemon tree and its amazing fruit. Along with planting it in a pot, you are preparing for a great garden that will fill your yard with joy for years to come.
The first step in planting a lemon tree in a pot and planting a garden is knowing how to identify the right lemon for your area. When you visit a nursery, the plant should be one of the young ones available. Look for lemons in the summer or when the weather is warm. They are smaller in the summer than in winter and they will not be as sour. If you can find them in the winter, it is a good idea to purchase one just before winter sets in and these may be stored in the basement during the colder months.
The climate where you live is very important. Different areas have different climates and this will affect how the plant will grow. Avoid planting tropical plants unless they were imported several years ago or if you live in a place that has warm summers. Instead, plant tropical trees in cool areas where they are likely to thrive even in the hottest summers. Also avoid planting lemons that are rare or exotic, such as the Japanese maple or Chinese elm.
Next, choose a pot that is well suited to the tree you wish to plant. Many people select the wrong size pot, one that is too large or small for their trees. You will want to allow room for the roots of the tree to spread out so keep in mind what size container you select. Be careful with pots that are not made of porous material as they could eventually rot. Look for plastic pots rather than clay ones as clay pots can retain water and this can be harmful to your tree.
Next, consider where you want to plant your lemon tree. If you are going to plant it in the kitchen garden, select a location that receives full sunlight and plenty of nutrients. This will help your tree to thrive. If you are planning to plant it outside, be aware that the elements can significantly reduce growth. It is important to place your tree in a location that receives the right kind of sunlight, moisture and temperature.
Finally, select a pot that best suits your tree. Keep in mind that planting a lemon tree in a pot that is too small will result in the tree dropping its leaves or being damaged if it stands in the pot without support. On the other hand, planting a lemon tree in a pot that is too large will require too much support which may injure your tree. It is recommended to use a potting bench as your storage container so that your tree can be easily moved wherever you need it.
Once you have decided on a suitable container and a suitable potting bench, the first thing you will do is to remove the soil from around your newly planted tree. Place the tree in the pot and fill in around it, filling in the exposed roots as well as the area near the base with a slightly moist soil. Then, it is time to move the tree in a gentle circular motion to avoid knocking the roots. Make sure to fill in all gaps and crevices to ensure even and healthy growing conditions for your lemon tree in a pot.
Finally, plant the tree in the pot and gently cover it with soil and give it sufficient room for good root growth. Water the tree regularly and monitor the growth of the branches. In due course, you will soon discover your new tree has become a great specimen tree. Your lemon tree will surely add flavor to your meals and your summer garden will be a great spot to relax during the hot summer days.