Lemon Plant(Air Layered)Fruit plant

Overview

• Scientific Name: Citrus limon

• Common Names: Lemon tree, Citrus lemon

• Type: Evergreen tree / shrub

• Height: Typically 6–20 feet (can be kept smaller in pots)

• Leaves: Glossy green, aromatic when crushed

• Flowers: Fragrant white flowers

• Fruit: aromatic acidic lemons used for culinary, medicinal, and ornamental purposes

Care Instructions

1. Sunlight

• Requires full sun (6–8 hours/day) for healthy growth and fruiting.

• Can tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer flowers and fruits.

2. Watering

• Young plants: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

• Mature trees: Water deeply every 1–2 weeks, depending on climate and soil.

• Avoid soggy soil, as it can cause root rot.

3. Soil

• Well-draining, loamy soil is ideal.

• Slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5) promotes nutrient uptake.

• Adding compost improves fertility.

4. Fertilizer

• Type: Balanced NPK fertilizer (e.g., 10:10:10 or 6:6:6:6 including micronutrients).

• Frequency:

  • Young trees: Every 6–8 weeks during growing season

  • Mature trees: 3–4 times a year (spring, summer, early fall)

• Organic options: Compost, well-rotted manure, or fish emulsion.

• Tip: Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause leaf growth but reduce fruiting.

5. Pruning

• Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches.

• Prune lightly after fruiting to maintain shape and improve air circulation.

Pests & Diseases

• Common pests: Aphids, scale insects, spider mites, citrus leaf miner

• Diseases: Root rot (waterlogged soil), citrus canker, fungal infections

• Control: Neem oil, insecticidal soap, proper drainage, and good hygiene.

Uses of Lemon Plant

1. Culinary Uses

• Fruit: Used fresh or as juice in cooking, baking, and beverages.

• Zest: Lemon peel zest adds flavor to desserts, marinades, and sauces.

• Preserves: Can be made into jams, pickles, or preserved lemons.

2. Medicinal Uses

• Rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants, and flavonoids.

• Helps boost immunity and fight infections.

• Lemon juice may aid digestion, relieve sore throat, and act as a natural detoxifier.

• Can be used in home remedies for skin care and minor ailments.

3. Aromatic Uses

• Flowers and leaves are fragrant and can be used in potpourri or essential oils.

• Lemon essential oil is used in aromatherapy for mood enhancement and stress relief.

4. Ornamental Uses

• Attractive tree with glossy leaves and fragrant flowers, ideal for gardens and patios.

• Can be grown in containers for decorative purposes.

Other Tips

• Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

• Lemon trees can be grown in pots for small spaces; ensure proper drainage.

• Hand-pollinate flowers if grown indoors or in areas with few pollinators.