Citrus trees

Question

Hi. . . . I live in the Mideast and have three citrus trees in my garden (Pomelo, Lemon and Clementine). They were planted 2 years ago and initially bore beautiful fruit. Now 2 years later they still are lush green but show no signs of budding whatsoever. When should I expect them to bud and why do they not seem to show signs of bearing fruit?

Answer 1

If any were grown from seed, they may not be old enough to bear fruit. Most citrus trees need 3-6 years to reach fruit bearing maturity.

Have you fertilized? Nitrogen encourages leaves to grow, but not fruit. Too much can actually keep a plant from producing fruit. This article has information on how to fertilize your trees: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/citrus/fertilizing-citrus-trees-best-practices-for-citrus-fertilizing.htm

I would also try giving them some phosphorus rich fertilizer, like bone meal. If the soil is lacking phosphorus, the trees will not be able to produce blossoms (which means no fruit.) In addition, the requirements for lemons are very similar to that of limes. If you have not read it yet, this article may also be helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/lime/reasons-and-fixes-for-lime-tree-not-producing-blossoms-or-fruit.htm