Misshapen Fruit on Meyer Lemon
I have a Meyer Lemon (Citrus x meyeri) tree that produces misshaped, discolored, small lemons. There is no sign of bugs. What could be happening?
The first fruit set on young citrus trees, including the Meyer lemon (hardy where winter temps remain above 25 degrees), is often misshapen. The small tree canopy fails to protect the fruit from sunburn resulting in misshapen fruit. Young and old established citrus trees suffering from moisture stress or nutrient deficiencies may also develop less than perfect fruit. Water your Meyer lemon tree thoroughly and whenever the top few inches of soil begin to dry. A soil test will tell you how much and what type of fertilizer to use. Older established trees generally need about one half of a pound of a 20-20-20 fertilizer per year. Apply this in five equal applications in early April, May, June, July and August. Trees that are 6 years and younger only need one quarter pound of fertilizer. A foliar application of a complete fertilizer with micronutrients or a soil applied organic fertilizer will usually provide the needed micronutrients. Be sure to read and follow label directions.
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