Lemon Tree Suckers

Question

I am very new to gardening and have a lemon tree (not sure what kind) that is very special to me as it was a gift from someone that planted it as a seed. I recently repotted it because I saw that it was growing so tall. While I was looking online for more tips on caring for it I came across your website and learnt about sucker branches. I’m worried that the large branch on my lemon plant may in fact be a lemon plant. I have attached a picture. Can you tell me if this is a sucker branch and if so what I should do about it? Thanks!!

Answer 1

It is fine to leave all the branches that your lemon has in place. Suckers typically grow right from the base of the tree at the soil- you should cut those off.

Also, I would recommend repotting your lemon tree in a smaller pot. The issue with a small plant in a large pot is that the soil holds onto water too long, which can damage your plant’s roots. Once your tree is a few more years old, you can move up to a larger pot. This article shows a citrus tree that is in a more appropriate pot for its size:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/lime/potted-lime-trees.htm