Q.Can A Sprout That Is Cut From The Trunk Of A Blooming Potted Meyer Lemon Tree Be Rooted?
We have a potted Meyer lemon tree that we brought in from our deck during freezing weather at the beginning of February. We decided to leave it inside since it is in the middle of a bloom cycle. It had numerous blooms but almost all are dropping before fruit. There are a few with the pea size green lemon appearing but the fruit does not appear to be increasing in size. We are keeping it in a sunny window in the corner of our dining area where it is not disturbed, and we add a small amount of water every 3 or 4 days to keep the top of the soil damp. There is a beautiful sprout that is growing about 1″ every two days. It is now about 15″ high. We understand we need to cut it off or we may not get any lemons. Will a sprout root? If so, what is the best way? In water or in soil? Do we need to use a root stimulator?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
If this is from below the graft union, then the new sprout is likely that of a citrus known as "Flying Dragon". It is a trifolate, wild orange, and of very little value outside of being a vigorous, dwarfing root stock.
With this being said- Yes, it will root. But the tree will grow to be very aggressive and thorny, never losing them. The fruit is considered edible, but most would disagree. It is very bitter, containing little pulp and many seeds.
