‍Why Does My Lemon Tree Drop Fruit?

In this week’s version of Tucson Landscape Maintenance Tips, we will talk about why citrus trees drop their fruit before they ripen. Imagine the frustration when a lemon tree has loads for blooms and then produces lots of fruit, only to have it end up on the ground underneath the tree. There can be several reasons why. Too Much Fertilization: When too much fertilizer is present, the tree will put extra effort into producing new, green leaves. That will draw nutrients away from the fruit itself. For best results, use a special citrus fertilizer using the label instructions. A good rule of thumb is to fertilize citrus trees on Valentine’s Day, Memorial Day, and Labor Day. Correct Watering: Over watering or under watering can both affect the production of fruit. Trees only need water when the top four inches of soil become completely dry. Lemon trees need about 1 ½ inches of rain in a week. Add water around the base slowly and let it sink in. Stop when the water starts to run off, in order to keep the nutrients from leaching out of the soil. Insects: Insects another cause for premature fruit drop. For smaller trees, a strong water stream from a hose can dislodge insects from the tree. Larger trees may need insecticidal soaps or oil sprays to control adult insects. Pruning: Correct pruning can also affect the production of fruit. Prune dead or damaged  limbs as needed. For shaping purposes, avoid pruning during the heat of the summer. February through April are the best pruning months, but it can be pruned any time the tree is producing flowers. Landtamers Landscaping, a Tucscon landscape maintenance company, offers an arbor division to help clients maintain healthy trees as part of their landscape maintenance program.