Position
Plant your Lisbon lemon tree in full sun. Although they tolerate wind well, they do better when they’re in a more sheltered spot. They don’t do well in frosty conditions. If your area is subject to frost, be sure to protect your tree by covering it with a sheet of plastic and, if it is very cold, a blanket.
Size
A mature Lisbon lemon tree will reach a height of about 9 metres with a canopy spread of 7.5 metres. So, allow enough room between trees for them to spread their boughs.
Soil Type
Opt for a well-draining soil (sandy or loamy soil) that allows the roots to extend into it and does not become waterlogged. A pH of between 5.5 and 6.5 is ideal.
Watering
Your tree needs to be watered regularly, especially when the tree is newly planted to help it to get established. Then, reduce the amount of watering. During the summer, water it once a week. In the wetter winter months, water it only every second week.
Mulching
Add a thick layer of pine bark mulch, keeping it about 20 to 30 centimetres away from the tree trunk (any closer may cause excess moisture and damage the trunk). This will retain the moisture in the soil and will prevent weeds from taking over.
Fertilising
Apply 2 teaspoon of our slow-release nitrogen-rich berry fertiliser every 3-4 months.
Pruning
Remove all of the suckers along the tree trunk and excess fruit while they are still small. This allows the tree to focus on healthy, established branches, fruits and leaves. Only prune it during winter.
Pests and Diseases
Aphids, citrus psylla, red scale, citrus greening. Spraying regularly with Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control ) will assist in either prevention or after the fact. If you already have aphids or mites, wash the tree with a harsh hosing, and when dry, spray with Neem oil or EM Control.
Practice good garden hygiene (remove fallen fruit and leaves).
Watch for root rot (if overwatered) and fungal infections during wet periods.
Harvesting
Your lemons should be ready to pick in the early spring. The skin should have a gorgeous yellow or yellow-green colour. It is more important that they are the correct size than completely yellow, as they will continue to ripen once picked.
