Lemon Improved Meyer

Plant Type: fruit
Plant Height: 8-10 feet
Spread: 12 feet
Flower Color: white
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Description:
The Improved Meyer Lemon, scientifically known as Citrus × meyeri 'Improved,' is a delightful and versatile citrus tree that can thrive in the Arizona landscape, particularly in regions with a hot and arid climate. Known for its fragrant blossoms, vibrant yellow fruits, and adaptability, the Improved Meyer Lemon adds a touch of citrus sweetness, culinary delight, and water-wise landscaping to gardens and outdoor spaces.

One of the most distinctive features of the Improved Meyer Lemon tree is its evergreen foliage, consisting of glossy, dark green leaves. The tree produces fragrant white blossoms with a sweet and citrusy aroma, enhancing its visual appeal and fragrance. The true star of the Improved Meyer Lemon tree is its bright yellow lemons, which are prized for their sweet and slightly tart flavor.

Growing Improved Meyer Lemon Trees in Arizona:

1. Variety Selection: Choose Improved Meyer Lemon trees or other citrus varieties that are well-suited to the local climate and have good heat tolerance. The Improved Meyer Lemon is an excellent choice for Arizona.

2. Planting Location: Select a sunny location for planting your Improved Meyer Lemon tree, as citrus trees require full sun for optimal fruit production. Ensure the site has well-drained soil to prevent root rot.

3. Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by adding organic matter to improve its water retention and nutrient content. Citrus trees thrive in slightly acidic soil.

4. Watering: Citrus trees in Arizona require regular and consistent watering, especially during the hot and dry summer months. Use a drip irrigation system to provide moisture directly to the root zone. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

5. Fertilization: Apply citrus-specific fertilizer according to recommended guidelines to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth and fruit production.

6. Pruning: Prune your Improved Meyer Lemon tree to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the canopy for better sunlight penetration and air circulation.

7. Pest and Disease Management: Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases that affect citrus trees, such as aphids and citrus leafminer. Implement appropriate pest control measures when necessary.

8. Harvesting: Improved Meyer Lemons can be harvested when they are fully ripe and have a bright yellow to orange color. They are known for their sweet and aromatic juice, making them a prized ingredient in a variety of culinary dishes and beverages.

The Improved Meyer Lemon tree's delicious fruits, fragrant blossoms, and evergreen foliage make it a valuable addition to gardens in Arizona. With proper care, including regular watering, fertilization, and pest management, Improved Meyer Lemon trees can thrive and provide an abundance of sweet lemons for culinary enjoyment, adding a burst of citrus sweetness to the landscape.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Lemon Improved Meyer

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 8 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth and fruit production)
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy or slightly acidic soil
• Spacing: Space plants 10-12 feet apart to allow for proper growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Lemon Improved Meyer may require staking during early growth but becomes self-supporting once mature

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 2-3 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Lemon Improved Meyer is considered established after 6-8 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 3-4 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 18-24 inches away from the base of the tree for deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 2-4 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 2-3 emitters per tree for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering frequency to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce to every 3-4 weeks