Three Varieties of Lemon Trees We Recommend Growing:
1: The Lisbon Lemon Tree
This tree produces fruit similar to what you’ll see in the average fruit and veg section in a supermarket and so is a popular choice. Most notable about it is its floral bouquet, which is similar in nature to that of the orange blossom, and the fruit, which possesses a great tangy taste.
It grows to about 8 feet in height (unless pruned/restricted by pot size) and will bear fruit staggeringly quickly – within 1-2 years of planting! It produces quite a lot of fruit and is sturdy in nature. Adding to its appeal, it is relatively heat and disease resistant and self-pollinates – a dream for any already overworked gardener!
2: The Dwarf Meyer Lemon Tree
Possessing fruit that is much smaller and sweeter than the Lisbon variety, the Dwarf Meyer is also known for its beautifully smelling flowers. In addition, it is also one of the hardiest varieties of lemon tree out there and another self-pollinator. It can manage cold, heat, and insect infestations much better than most, and as an added bonus – if you’re limited for space, this tree will only grow to 4-6 feet in height in a pot!
3: The Dwarf Ponderosa Lemon Tree
Of all the varieties listed, this one may actually produce the tastiest fruit – which are absolutely massive! Some fruits can even weigh up to two pounds! However, while the fruit may be the sweetest, it also requires the most input and maintenance of the three varieties. It does not have the same resistant to heat as the others do and is thus better kept indoors away from the full effects of the sun.
However, there are also some extra benefits to choosing this variety. It grows incredibly quickly, is self-pollinating and won’t get any larger than 8 feet. You can of course prune it smaller if you need to.
Choosing the Right Pot for Your Tree:
When making the decision on what pot to use, you need to consider a few vital elements, such as:
Drainage: You’ll need a pot which allows excess water to leave the roots. Too much soakage can cause the roots to rot, killing the tree.
Sizing: 5 gallons, as a minimum is recommended. Generally, 10 is optimal. Anything larger is going to be VERY heavy.
With that, here are some pot types that we recommend which ensure good growth and drainage: