Are your lemon tree leaves turning yellow? Well, then let’s do something about it!
I planted my first lemon tree back in 2019 with my mom’s help. However, once the tree matured and started producing some juicy lemons, the leaves quickly began discoloring and it definitely took a toll on my sanity because I couldn’t figure out what was wrong.
If you’re in a similar situation and want a diagnosis for the issue, keep reading because the answer might be simpler than you think!
Why Are My Lemon Tree Leaves Turning Yellow?
4) A Nutrient Deficiency
The first possible reason behind leaf yellowing in your lemon tree can be a nutrient deficiency. Many people tend to overlook nutrient deficiencies, hoping the soil will somehow generate the necessary nutrients on its own. But, that’s certainly not how it works, and the issue should be addressed with far more seriousness.
To combat nutrient deficiencies, feed your lemon tree with a high-quality, balanced fertilizer that contains a blend of all essential nutrients like potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, etc.
3) Pest Infestation
Pests, if allowed to get out of control, can truly wreak havoc in your garden. They can feed on foliage and put holes in leaves that eventually weaken them, causing them to discolor and possibly even fall off entirely. Spider mites, aphids, cutworms, thrips, and leafhoppers all love feeding on lemon leaves.
Drive pests out of your garden using pesticide sprays from your local gardening store. They’re cheap, easy to find, and work quite effectively.
2) Poor Drainage & Water Accumulation
If your lemon tree remains soggy most of the time and water just pools around its base, the excessive moisture can invite waterlogging issues and cause root rot. As you might already know, leaf discoloration is a commonly recognized sign of overwatering and root rot.
Bring your watering habits under control. If you happen to be watering your lemon tree too much or too frequently, stop! More water isn’t going to “hydrate” your lemon tree any better; it will only damage it.
Also, if the soil around your lemon tree is packed too tight, take a garden fork and loosen the soil to allow for better drainage and aeration.
1) Fungal Disease
A fungal disease spreading throughout your lemon tree can present itself in the form of yellowing leaves. Though there aren’t any particular “causes” for fungal infection in trees, damp conditions paired with poor air circulation definitely do raise the likelihood of it.
If you believe it’s a fungal infection that you’re dealing with, pruning and thinning out your lemon tree can be a good idea since it improves air circulation. Applying appropriate fungicides can also definitely help.
What Do You Feed Citrus Trees With Yellow Leaves?
Generally speaking, a citrus tree that’s suffering from leaf discoloration can benefit from a magnesium-heavy fertilizer. While it may not solve every single underlying issue, it can certainly help restore a greener, healthier appearance to the foliage.
Should You Cut Off The Yellow Leaves On Your Lemon Tree?
Yes, you should be cutting off the yellow leaves on your lemon tree! Discolored leaves make your tree look dry and old, which is incredibly unappealing in the realm of gardening.
Removal of yellow leaves is especially beneficial if it’s a fungal infection that has affected them as you’ll be able to control the spread of the disease and keep it from affecting other areas of the tree.
Final Words
When I first noticed the leaves of my Meyer lemon tree yellowing, I panicked. But, now, I realize I shouldn’t have. The panic and worry didn’t let me make the right decision at the right time. So, don’t be like me!
Calmly assess the root cause of the issue by considering the tree’s surrounding conditions and care routine, then take effective steps until the leaves begin to show some signs of improvement.
