How to Grow Lemon Tree

Updated June 2026

A year-round fruit for the home garden across the warmer US.

Lemon Tree is a rewarding year-round crop for backyard growers.

What it looks like as it grows

When to plant

In frost-free regions lemon tree can be grown almost year-round. Elsewhere, plant in the milder months on either side of summer. See your region on the lemon tree page for exact timing.

Varieties

Meyer, Sweeter, more cold-hardy lemon (certified citrus nurseries)
Eureka, Classic tart true lemon (certified citrus nurseries)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 9.8 ft between plants.
Sowing: sow about 12 in deep.
Water: roughly 5.3 gal per plant every 3 days in hot weather.
Containers: grows well in a pot of 20 in+ (dwarf varieties).

Pests & problems

Watch for Citrus gall wasp, Bronze orange bug, Leaf miner and Scale. In humid regions, Citrus canker, Melanose and Citrus scab can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Lemon Tree is usually ready to harvest within roughly 24 months once established. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant lemon tree where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

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