Q.Trouble With My Lemon
Hi hope you can help been growing this lemon tree from seed for about 3 years.i have had lots of problems with spider mites and I think scale not over sure about overwatering and in the few days has lost a few leaves can you help please.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
These infections are caused by the insects, typically. This is to be expected, and can be hard to correct.
I recommend fungicides or bactericides. There is quite a bit of overlap.
Make sure that the tree has plenty of time to dry out down to about 2 or 3 inches between waterings. This will help to make sure that it doesn't get overwatered.
Just as a personal tip. These trees will have a rough time unless you provide extra lighting, indoors. 100 or 200 watts of light will be sufficient, as long as it is horticultural grade lighting. Myself, I use a 315 watt CMH, or Ceramic Metal Halide. This lights a 4 foot by 4 foot area, comfortably. This fits my small potted trees for the winter, and keeps them growing quickly.
Another thing to mention- Iron sulfate, and Dolomitic lime will help you, tremendously. Once or twice per year and at any sign of infection, sprinkle a little onto the soil and it can help keep infections at bay, as well as condition the soil.
Here is an article that will help you with more information on growing citrus indoors:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/citrus/growing-citrus-trees-indoors.htm
