The climate in eastern Zhejiang is suitable for planting lemon trees. Because lemons like warmth, tolerate shade, are not cold-tolerant, and are afraid of heat, they are suitable for cultivation in subtropical areas with warm winters and cool summers. The specific requirements for planting lemon trees are as follows:
1. Soil requirements
The root system of lemons has high requirements for water, nutrients and soil. The potting soil should be formulated to be water-permeable, breathable, water- and fertilizer-retaining, Slightly acidic culture soil. Lemons are suitable for planting in warm, gentle slopes with deep soil and good drainage. The most suitable soil pH value for lemons is between 5.5-7.0.
2. Light and temperature
Lemons are light-loving plants. However, if the sunlight is too strong, their growth and development will be stunted. Generally, the plants need to be replaced at noon. The annual average temperature suitable for growth is above 15°C, and the optimal growth temperature is 23°C to 29°C. Growth will stop if it exceeds 35°C, and frost damage will occur at -2°C. Lemons generally do not need to be cooled in summer. Enter the room before frost and leave after Qingming, so they can survive the winter safely.
3. Watering
Lemons need more water during growth and development, but too much water will not easily cause root rot. Generally speaking, spring is the time when leaves are sprouting and buds are blooming, so you should water appropriately. In summer, the light is strong and the temperature is high, requiring more water. But it should be done in the right amount at the right time. Autumn is the period when shoots grow and fruits expand rapidly, so sufficient water is necessary. Late autumn and winter are the flower bud differentiation periods, and the pot soil should be dry.
4. Fertilization
Lemons prefer fertilizer. In addition to applying sufficient base fertilizer when potting and changing pots, the principle of applying thin fertilizer frequently during the growth period should be adhered to. The frequency and amount of fertilization must be determined according to the growth condition and phenological stage. For example, when applying liquid fertilizer, it is better to use fully fermented cake fertilizer and water, and the cake to water ratio is 1:200. The soil in the north is alkaline, so ferrous sulfate can be added to the fertilizer solution to form a slightly acidic nutrient solution.
Extended information
Notes on lemon tree planting:
1. Fertilizer and water management
After the lemon tree is successfully planted, the first two years Nitrogen fertilizer should be used as top dressing, but there is also an appropriate amount of controlled nitrogen fertilizer. Excessive nitrogen fertilizer will cause the lemon tree to grow leggy and cause flower and fruit drop. When using nitrogen fertilizer, you should also pay attention to the application of compound fertilizers such as calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. Use organic fertilizer as the base fertilizer for lemon trees in autumn to provide sufficient nutrients for the tree and promote the germination of flower buds and flowering and fruiting.
2. Cultivating and weeding
Cultivating and weeding is an essential step in planting lemon trees. Cultivating is to make the soil softer, especially before the high temperature and drought season in summer. , cultivating and loosening the soil in advance before drought can make the soil softer, which has a certain effect on reducing water evaporation. Cultivate at least three times a year, at least ten centimeters each time, but be careful not to damage the roots.
3. Pruning
Lemon saplings have strong growth ability and high flowering rate, and they are prone to leggy branches in the bends of branches and backbone branches, which is harmful to the tree. The tree shape of the body is affected. Therefore, pruning the lemon tree requires hanging it with a rope to prevent the secondary main branches from bending. Wipe out sprouts from the backbone to promote lemon development.
4. Disease and pest control
Lemons are very resistant to pests and diseases, especially when cultivated in the north, where the climate is dry and there are fewer pests and diseases. Prevention of pests and diseases is the main focus, and attention should be paid to cleanliness and hygiene in cultivation and management. If there is dust on the leaves, spray water to wash it away. Ventilation and light transmission are also important.
Reference: Baidu Encyclopedia-Lemon Tree