Is it possible to grow a lemon tree in Lithuania?

Although Lithuania does not have a warm subtropical climate, which is naturally suitable for lemon trees, it is possible to grow lemon tree in Lithuania, you will only need to pay a little more attention and create the right conditions.

How to grow a lemon tree? Preparation and care

Lemon trees in Lithuania are grown as houseplants or greenhouses. The key is to create the most close to the natural growth conditions as possible:

• Light: Lemon trees need a lot of light, especially in winter. It is best to keep them on the southern window sill. In the summer, the direct noon should be slightly protected from the direct noon by building 1-1.5 meters from the window or dimming. If natural light is not enough, especially during the dark time of the year, special fitolempps should be used.
• Temperature: In summer, the optimum temperature is 20-25 ° C. In winter, lemon trees require a dormant period in a cooler room, ideally at +5 to +14 ° C. Cool corridors, unheated room or light winter garden are perfect for this. Sudden temperature fluctuations can be harmful.
• Moisture: Lemon trees like humid air. During the heating season, when the air is dry, it is advisable to place a container with water near the plant or to spray the leaves regularly with soft, room temperature water.
• Watering: Watering should be regularly when the top layer of ground is dry. It is important not to water because excessive moisture can cause root rot. It is best to use soft, well -established water. Watering should be reduced in winter.
• Soil: Lemon trees are not suitable for a universal peat substrate. It grows best in fertile, fluffy, slightly acidic (pH 5.5-7) soil. It is possible to use a special citrus plant or to make a mixture of turf, leafy ground, rotten manure and large sand (2: 2: 1: 1). Good drainage at the bottom of the pot is required.
• Fertilization: During active growth (from spring to autumn), lemon trees should be fertilized every 1-2 weeks with special citrus fertilizers. In winter, fertilization should be reduced to 1 time a month.
• Pruning: Pruning helps form a beautiful wreath shape, promotes branching and negotiation. It is best to prune in the spring before active growth or after harvest.
• Transplant: Young lemon trees should be transplanted every year by increasing the size of the pot. Older ones-every 2-3 years. The best time for transplanting is spring.
• Flowering and fruit knitting: The room grown lemon trees can bloom and match. It is advisable to pollinate the rings by manually (eg brush) during flowering. Young plants should regulate the number of fruit, leaving only a few to prevent the plant from weakening.

Possible challenges

You may face the following challenges when growing lemon in Lithuania:

• Insufficient lighting in winter: short and dark days may require additional lighting.
• Dry indoor air during the heating season: you will need to take care of air humidification.
• Pests and diseases: Houseplants can also be damaged by pests (eg aphids, shields) and diseases. You will need to look at the plant regularly and take measures in a timely manner.

Although the cultivation of lemon in Lithuania requires a little effort and knowledge, but with proper care, you can not only enjoy a beautiful, fragrant plant, but also get your own lemon.

The most important thing is to give it enough light, cool period of dormancy in winter and proper care of moisture and watering. So, if you have the patience and desire, lemon tree can become an exotic decoration of your home and even delight in the first harvest.

Photos associative © canva

Source: https://www.bc.ua/