🪴 Choose the Right Variety and Pot

• Best varieties for pots: Meyer lemon and Eureka lemon are compact, semi-dwarf types that thrive in containers and produce fruit year-round.

• Pot size: Start with a pot at least 18–24 inches wide and deep. As the tree grows, upgrade to a 3-foot-wide pot for maximum yield.

• Drainage: Ensure the pot has multiple drainage holes to prevent root rot.

☀️ Provide Optimal Growing Conditions

• Sunlight: Place the pot in a location that gets at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. South-facing balconies or patios are ideal.

• Soil: Use a light, well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix. A blend of potting soil with perlite or sand works well.

• Temperature: Lemons prefer warm climates. If temperatures drop below 10°C (50°F), move the pot indoors or cover the tree.

💧 Watering and Feeding

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.

• Fertilizer: Feed with a citrus-specific fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season. Look for one rich in nitrogen, magnesium, and iron.

✂️ Pruning and Pollination

• Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage airflow. Remove dead or crossing branches.

• Hand-pollinate indoor trees using a soft brush to transfer pollen between flowers if bees aren’t present.

🍋 Boosting Fruit Production

• Stress the tree slightly by allowing the soil to dry a bit before watering—this can trigger flowering.

• Remove early fruit during the first year to help the tree focus on root and branch development.

• Rotate the pot every few weeks to ensure even sun exposure.

🛡️ Pest and Disease Management

• Watch for common pests like aphids, spider mites, and scale. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed.

• Avoid overwatering to prevent fungal diseases.

🌼 Year-Round Harvest Strategy

• Meyer lemons often flower multiple times a year, leading to staggered harvests.

• Keep the tree in a stable environment with consistent light and temperature to encourage continuous fruiting.