Lemon Tree Cultivation

Lemons are a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, a rich source of vitamin C, and have many beneficial properties. Widely grown in the Mediterranean and Aegean regions of Turkey, lemons can also be grown in other regions under suitable conditions. Successful lemon cultivation requires detailed knowledge and technical skills. In this article, we will examine the important steps and technical details of lemon cultivation under headings.

Climate Requirements

Lemon trees thrive in warm and temperate climates. Areas with an average temperature above 15°C (59°F) and no risk of frost are suitable for lemon cultivation. Lemon trees can be negatively affected by sudden temperature changes and cold wind.

Soil Requirements

Lemon trees prefer well-drained, deep soils rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Sandy loam and calcareous soils are ideal for lemon cultivation.

Rootstocks

Commonly used rootstock types in lemon cultivation are:

• Carabalik: The most popular rootstock type. It is resistant to diseases, has good compatibility, and provides high yields.
• Volkameriana: Known for its cold tolerance. It is also relatively drought tolerant.
• Citrange Carri: One of the most common rootstocks for citrus fruits. It is disease resistant and well adapted to sandy soils.

Pollination Biology

Lemon flowers can self-pollinate. However, pollination can be increased with the help of pollinators such as wind and bees.

Varieties

Commonly grown lemon varieties in Turkey are:

• Meyveci Limonu: The most popular lemon variety. It has a thin rind and is juicy.
• Limon Çeşidi: Thick-rinded and seedless. Used in pickle making.
• Bergamot: An aromatic lemon variety. Used in perfume and tea making.

Orchard Establishment

Sapling Planting and Time

Lemon saplings are planted in the spring when the air temperature is above 15°C (59°F). Holes 1 meter (3.3 feet) deep and 1 meter (3.3 feet) wide are dug for planting. The saplings are placed in the holes in a way that will not damage their roots and watered abundantly.

Preparation of the Garden Place for Planting

The planting area is filled with well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Compost or aged manure can be added to the soil before planting.

Features to be Sought in Saplings

Healthy and strong saplings should be selected for planting. The roots of the saplings should be firm and the branches should be alive. The leaves should be green and disease-free.

Determination of Planting Places, Shape and Spacing

Lemon saplings are planted at a spacing of 5-6 meters (16-19 feet). This spacing provides enough space for the lemon trees to develop.

Annual Maintenance of Orchards

Tillage

Soil cultivation is done several times a year in lemon orchards. Soil cultivation helps to control weeds and aerate the soil.

Irrigation

Lemon trees should be watered 2-3 times a week. Watering should be done in the early morning hours or before sunset in the evening. The amount of irrigation should be adjusted according to the weather conditions and soil moisture content. On average, a lemon tree needs 50-60 liters (13-16 gallons) of water per week.

Fertilization

Lemon trees are fertilized with NPK fertilizers. Fertilization is done 3-4 times a year. The amount and timing of fertilization is determined based on the soil analysis results and the growth status of the lemon tree. Generally, fertilizer mixtures containing 100 grams (3.5 ounces) of N, 50 grams (1.8 ounces) of P, and 100 grams (3.5 ounces) of K are suitable for lemon trees. However, having a soil analysis done and creating a fertilization program based on this analysis is important for more efficient and healthy cultivation.

Disease and Pests

Lemon trees are susceptible to various diseases and pests. The most common diseases include:

• Citrus tristeza virus (CTV): A viral disease that causes significant yield losses.
• Menafeest disease: Causes yellow spots on leaves.
• Gommose disease: Causes bark cracks and gum flow on branches and trunk.

The most common pests include:

• Scale insects: Pests found on the undersides of leaves that feed on plant sap.
• Citrus mealybug: A pest found on branches that damages the bark by sucking it.
• Mediterranean fruit fly: An important pest that causes damage to fruits during the ripening period.

To control diseases and pests, integrated pest management methods should be applied. These methods include using cultural practices, biological control, and chemical control methods together.

Pruning

Lemon trees are pruned several times a year. Pruning is done for various purposes:

• Heading Cut: Performed to control the height of the tree and increase fruit yield.
• Thinning Cut: Removal of inward-growing branches to improve sunlight and air circulation.
• Harvest Pruning: Removal of unproductive branches after harvest.
• Rejuvenation Pruning: Pruning done to revitalize old and declining lemon trees.

Harvest

Lemon harvest is done before the fruits are fully ripe. The degree of ripeness can vary depending on the lemon variety and its intended use. Harvest typically begins when the fruit rind color is between dark green and light yellow.

Lemon harvest usually starts in the summer months and can extend into spring. The harvest period and yield depend on the lemon variety, care practices, and climatic conditions. On average, 50-100 kg (110-220 lbs) of lemons can be obtained from a single lemon tree per year.

Storage

Lemon fruits can be stored for approximately 2-3 months in cold storage facilities with a temperature of 10-13°C (50-55°F) and 70-80% humidity. Lemons are sensitive to ethylene gas. Therefore, they should not be stored with other fruits and vegetables.

Important Notes for Successful Lemon Cultivation

To be successful in lemon cultivation, it is important to pay attention to the following points:

• Choosing the Right Region: Lemon trees are suitable for cultivation in regions with warm and temperate climates. Cold weather and frost damage lemon trees.
• Sapling Selection: For planting, choose healthy, strong saplings grafted onto disease-resistant rootstocks.
• Water Management: Lemon trees require regular watering. It is important to keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering.
• Sun Needs: Lemon trees should be grown in sunny locations. Sunlight increases fruit yield and quality.
• Wind Protection: Lemon trees should be protected from excessive wind. Wind can cause fruit drop and branch breakage.
• Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain the shape of the lemon tree, increase yield, and prevent diseases.
• Pest and Disease Control: Use integrated pest management methods to keep disease and pest populations under control.
• Harvest Time: Lemons should be harvested before they fully ripen. Harvest time can vary depending on the fruit rind color and intended use.

Profitability in Lemon Cultivation

With proper care practices and marketing strategies, lemons can be a profitable crop. There is high demand for lemons in both domestic and foreign markets.

Before starting lemon cultivation, it is beneficial to conduct detailed research, choose lemon varieties suitable for your region, and consult with experienced individuals or agricultural engineers

Source:https://gemini.google.com/