Choosing the right tree needs to be carefully considered. We explain what to look for when buying lemon trees.
Lemon trees (Citrus x limon) are not a very cheap purchase. Nevertheless, there are some advantages to buying it compared to breeding it. In this way, for example, you can be sure that the tree is already old enough to be fruitful in case you reach for a specimen with already existing fruit. You also know exactly which variety you have in front of you. In spring the selection of citrus trees (Citrus) the biggest, bargain hunters, on the other hand, are advised to buy in autumn, when the remaining stock is cleared. However, the quality often leaves something to be desired. We will show you the most important criteria for buying a lemon tree.
Buying a lemon tree: what you should pay attention to
In order to enjoy your new journeyman for a long time, it is important that you look carefully when you buy your lemon tree.
- You should pay special attention to the finishing point. Like many other fruit plants, lemon trees are grafted. Among other things, this helps ensure that they bear fruit sooner. Therefore, make sure that your lemon tree has a grafting point. This should be well grown and quite smooth.
- The bark of a healthy tree is also smooth.
- Examine the leaves and stem for pests like Scale insects or Spider mites.
- Evenly dark green and strong leaves are a sign that the tree is healthy.
Expert tip: Lemon trees that are offered for sale are often already bearing fruit. However, these are then usually labeled with the note that they are not suitable for consumption. Don't let that confuse you. The declaration as an ornamental plant has tax reasons.
However, this makes it possible to treat the lemon trees during rearing with pesticides that are not permitted in food production. For this reason, it is better to refrain from harvesting the fruits that are already hanging and be patient until the first fruits have completely ripened at home. These are then easily edible.
Recommended sources for buying a lemon tree
Lemon trees can be found in pretty much every flower shop or garden center these days. Even some supermarket chains now and then have the Mediterranean plants on offer at reasonable prices. But especially with very cheap specimens, you should definitely pay attention to the quality of the plants and examine whether there is a grafting point. If you want to be on the safe side, it is better to buy locally from a nursery. There is free advice there. The Tree care and citrus nursery Berhard Voss not far from Hamburg. However, some retailers have also established themselves online with quality standards. Mail order My orangery offers a large selection of lemon and citrus trees for sale. Also the Stuttgart Bioland nursery in Bender not only sells directly in Stuttgart, but also sends you your new organic lemon tree conveniently to your home.
If you have decided on a lemon tree, then you are also faced with the question of how to properly care for it. More information about the Fertilizing lemon trees You will find here.