Lemon, also known as Citrus limon, is a famous fruit and medicinal plant. Lemons thrive in warm climates, are shade-tolerant, and sensitive to cold and excessive heat. Therefore, they are best cultivated in subtropical regions with warm winters and cool summers. Let's delve into the best time and methods for planting lemons.
Best Time for Planting Lemons
Spring is the ideal time for lemon cultivation. The warm weather during spring promotes rapid growth, making it an excellent time for lemon seed sowing. However, for establishing lemon orchards, seed sowing is not typically preferred due to slow germination and low survival rates. Growers mostly opt for purchasing seedlings for transplanting, which can be done in either spring or autumn. It's advisable to transplant in October during autumn when temperatures are not too low, allowing the roots more time to establish. If missed, transplanting can also be done in March during spring.
Planting Methods
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Site Selection and Preparation: Lemons have strict soil requirements, preferring loose, deep, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Prepare the land by deep plowing and breaking up clods, removing stones, weeds, and adding compost and fertilizers rich in trace elements.
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Planting Density: Lemon trees are typically planted at a density of 3×4 meters, with around 55 trees per acre. Dig planting holes with dimensions of 60×60×60 centimeters, and apply 30-50 kilograms of organic fertilizer and 0.5-1 kilogram of calcium superphosphate per hole, or more than 20 kilograms of well-rotted organic manure. Mix the fertilizer with soil and form planting mounds 20 centimeters above ground level.
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Transplanting: Remove grafting film from seedlings, trim damaged roots, cut off excessively long taproots and tender lateral roots. Dig small holes on the planting mounds, place the seedlings, cover the roots with soil while gently pressing, ensuring close contact between roots and soil. The depth of planting should match the nursery's soil mark, with the root collar exposed above the ground. Water thoroughly after planting, and cover with straw, straw mats, green manure, or plastic film for insulation and moisture retention.
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Post-Planting Management: Seedlings typically take about half a month to establish. During this period, water regularly without fertilizing. After establishment, inspect regularly to maintain moist but not waterlogged soil, promoting root and shoot growth. Once new shoots emerge, apply diluted manure water.
These are the best time and methods for planting lemons. Lemon trees flower from April to May, with fruiting occurring from September to November. They start flowering and fruiting within 2-3 years of planting, reaching commercial fruit production within 5 years, with an average yield of 1500 fruits per tree annually.
