How Much Water Does a Lisbon Lemon Need in Winter?

Identification

• Lisbon lemons are members of the Citrus genus, hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11. Like other Citrus species, they may have slightly thorny branches. Their waxy, evergreen leaves provide appealing contrast to their bright white flowers in winter and spring and their large, yellow fruit, which is usually most noticeable in late wintertime. The Lisbon lemon’s primary fruiting season is February, with a second fruiting in May.

Winter Watering Needs

• Like most plants, Lisbon lemons need less water in winter. You can judge the amount your lemon tree needs by roughly measuring the canopy of the tree. Generally, lemons need more water the older they are, and therefore the wider they spread. They also need more water during hot, dry summer months than in winter. A lemon tree with a 10-foot canopy may need between roughly 2.5 and 3 gallons per day between December and February, but will need more like 16.5 or 17 gallons per day in August. Watering tables specifically available to citrus trees are available to help you calculate.

Watering Dangers

• Overwatering, especially in winter, carries with it dangers such as root rot and other pathogens that may opportunistically attack a soggy or ailing tree. Stick to a regular schedule based on the time of year and do not alter it. Trees prefer the thorough, infrequent soakings that encourage deep feeder roots to access groundwater. Frequent, shallow waterings such as those administered by sprinklers encourage roots at the top of the soil and are usually insufficient.

Culture

• Lemons will grow in a range of soils. They are highly sensitive to herbicides, but do need to be cut back after 12 years or else replaced, as they grow a little too weedily. Plant 25 feet apart or else production will suffer. Do not create a trough around the lemon tree. This will only add to root rot and won’t help the tree absorb water more effectively. Instead, built the soil up a few inches around the base of the tree to ensure good drainage. Lemons prefer full sun. Although they will tolerate some shade, they will not fruit well unless they get between six and eight hours of daylight per day.