- permeability
- water storage and drainage
- composition
- The simple solution
- PH value
- frequently asked Questions
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If you want to cultivate a lemon tree, you have to choose the right soil, among other things. But which substrate is ideal and what should the composition look like? Our guide shows it.
In a nutshell
- drainage is necessary
- Permeability is crucial
- Mixture can be made by yourself
- Nutrients must be balanced
- Substrates can also be bought ready made
permeability
An important factor in the soil for the lemon tree is the permeability of the substrate. Because the Mediterranean plant does not tolerate waterlogging. The following points are therefore important:
- loose texture
- moderate water retention
- safe drainage of the water
water storage and drainage
Even if the lemon tree does not tolerate waterlogging, it still needs the most constant moisture possible in the soil. For example, the following are good for this:
- expanded clay
- humus garden soil
- coconut fibers
- sand
- potsherds
Novel plant substrates consist of expanded clay pellets, which are durable and store moisture in their pores.
These store the water and release it with a delay, so that although no liquid is accumulated, it is still there.
Even if the substrate has been put together correctly, drainage should still be installed at the bottom of the planter. This also prevents waterlogging and thus reduces the risk of rotting roots and moldy citrus soil.
The drainage layer can be made of the following materials:
- coarse gravel
- pebbles
- pottery or pottery shards
- sand
Tip: Another advantage of drainage is that the soil does not leak out of the planter. In addition, the process is slowed down but ensured.
composition
For the lemon tree, the soil mixture must have a certain composition. It refers to:
- humus substrate
- mature compost
- peat
These substances are thoroughly mixed together in equal parts. The roots can then spread well and supply themselves with water and nutrients.
The simple solution
The simplest solution, and especially ideal when there is no garden and no compost available, is ready-made special soil. This special soil for lemon trees can now be purchased in almost every hardware store and garden center.
Notice: Citrus soil is also suitable for oranges and kumquat or tangerines. Drainage is still required.
PH value
Just as lemons are acidic, so should the soil for your lemon tree. A pH of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal.
If the crop does not thrive despite otherwise appropriate conditions, an appropriate test can be carried out to determine the value. The addition of lemon peel helps with acidification. Mineral additions, on the other hand, are basic.
frequently asked Questions
How often does the lemon tree need to be repotted?A rough guide is to completely change the citrus soil every two to three years. If the roots are already growing out of the pot's drainage holes or if growth is delayed, repotting can be done more frequently.
Why is repotting important?When cultivating in a tub, the lemon tree only has a small amount of substrate available. This means that nutrients are flushed out comparatively quickly, even with accompanying fertilization, and that only small amounts are present anyway. It is then spoken of used earth. A corresponding change is therefore necessary.
Does the substrate play a role in the yield?Yes, the nature of the substrate plays a crucial role in the yield. Nutrients, moisture and permeability are important factors, as is pH.