What's going on with my Dwarf Meyer Lemon Tree?
M SUJ
7 years ago
Featured Answer
Sort by:Oldest
Comments (7)
iandyaz
7 years agolast modified: 7 years agoM SUJ
7 years agoRelated Discussions
Improved Dwarf Meyer Lemon Tree: Post-Scale Dying?
Comments (5)Matt, what did you use to rid scale? Baby shampoo or a chemical insecticide? Chemicals are dangerous. Especially if used indoors. Since you're in NY, you either sprayed inside or hauled outdoors to apply..Or did you use systemic? I once killed a Gardenia tree by using a harsh chemical, even though, the tree was outside, and I followed directions to a T. Ironically, branches blackenedd and tree died..Not from scale, but the chemical itself, since it died the day after applying insecticide. I spray citrus with Fish Emulsion, in autumn, before bringing indoors..FE prevents and kills scale on contact. If you find Fish Emulsion replusive, (it has a fishy smell that lasts about 2 days, but they now sell an odorless type) there are other oils such as Neem. Artificial light will certainly help, but in your case, I doubt low light is/was the cause of your lemon's problems. Stop fertilizing..For one thing, as you stated, light is low..Citrus go into a semi-dormancy..They need a rest period..If light is low, plants slow down, therefore, adding fertilizer can cause spindly growth. Also, when a plant is undergoing problems, disease/insects, it is advised to stop adding fertilizer. If anything, in early fall, add a slow-release, low NPK type. In spring, or when growth is spotted, start your regular feeding program. I disagree the Baby Shampoo did any damage. How much did you use, and what ratio of water? One author and tv host, Jerry Baker, recommends cleaning foliage with baby shampoo.. Did you discard the Ficus? Considering it's a bonsai, scale shouldn't be too difficult ridding. For starters, you can hand-pick, unless you're squeamish about bugs..Matt, you're talking to a 'bugophobic,' lol, yet, if I saw scale on a plant, you'd best believe I'd start plucking, though spraying is preferable..lol Prune blackened branches..they will not resort to green. Shake plant to remove dead leaves..Toss leaves in the trash, or burn..which reminds me..if you have other plants, especially neighboring, inspect each carefully..also, isolate plants with scale. Move plants to a cool,(65-68F is fine) airy, humid location..and yes, humidifers help big time..fresh air is also important. If you have a ceiling fan, run on low at least 1 hour a day..it circulates air to a degree. I also use a rotating fan. Matt, do you have a picture to post? If your citrus is managable size, after removing dead leaves, haul to sink or shower, allow water wash leaves..2-4 mins. Hose Ficus too. Matt, I'm an optimist when it comes to plants..only plants, but plants, nonetheless..Some of my plants were bought in what I coined, the 'dead cart' in stores where plants were going to be tossed..In and outdoor plants..I'd never buy an infested plant, no Sir, I'm not that optimistic..lol.. Good luck, Toni If you have any questions, ask away..Please stop fertilizing, and before adding water, check soil, make sure it's dry before giving a drink....See MoreHelp! What's going to happen to my Meyer Lemon tree?!
Comments (2)It should be fine. Just be sure you keep it watered well while it is reseating itself. In your area, that means at least once a day. You could make sure you check the soil pH once it is settled in and add whatever it needs. I am sure you are aware that it needs a pH around 5-6. Your garden soil, which he may have used, could be above that, so just try not to be too upset. I had 25 clematis chopped down with a weedeater by a new gardener. It's life. Things happen. My DH sprayed Round Up on my roses and killed more than 200. Things happen. Life goes on. This post was edited by patricia43 on Fri, Jun 6, 14 at 13:31...See MoreUnripe fruit falling off dwarf Meyer lemon tree
Comments (28)Dear Sara, Though I have only had my fruit tree for a few months, I have experienced the joy and disappointment on care for .......a PLANT! Don't know why, but want this one to do well. I too had this sticky white stuff. Here in Seattle, I keep my plant 50% of the time indoors, and 50% out on my southern exposed deck. After reading and inspection, I have discovered that my plant has scale, a type of bug infestation that can present. These insects are very small (my the size of a small bead) and they feed off the plant. They look like small pill (potato) bugs and move very slowly. Subsequently, their poo is the white, sticky substance that is deposited on the stems and undersides of leaves. I read this material can attract other insects (ants) but is not toxic for pets. I was able to catch it early, and washed the plant well. Then, I sprayed it with a combination of Neem oil and diswashing liquid solution (you can buy various preparations) and after a couple of days, washed again. Upon further inspection, I only saw 1 bug that I happily squished!! Must periodically inspect and occasionally wash. I don't know if that is what you're experiencing, but if so, it is much easier to treat when infestation is new (vs established). Good Luck!!...See MoreNeed help with my Dwarf Meyer Lemon Tree... (Droopy leaves)
Comments (3)From the pic it looks like the wilted leaves are on one side. Is that so? It could be a case of too much light along with cool soil. Just a thought. It has a name too - winter leaf drop. Although, in my case I notice it more in late spring when I start taking my plants outside....See Morejinnylea
7 years agolast modified: 7 years agoiandyaz
7 years agoM SUJ
7 years agoM SUJ
7 years agolast modified: 7 years ago
Related Stories
GARDENING GUIDESHow to Keep Your Citrus Trees Well Fed and Healthy
Ripe for some citrus fertilizer know-how? This mini guide will help your lemon, orange and grapefruit trees flourish
Full StoryDECORATING GUIDESHave Lemons? Make a Decorative Statement
Add a splash of citrus for some midwinter color therapy
Full StoryEDIBLE GARDENSHow to Grow 10 Favorite Fruit Trees at Home
Plant a mini orchard in fall, winter or early spring to enjoy fresh-off-the-tree fruit the following year
Full StoryFARM YOUR YARDIf You Have Room for Only One Fruit Tree ...
Juice up a small garden with one of these easier-care or worth-the-effort fruit trees for a mild climate
Full StoryGARDENING AND LANDSCAPINGCrazy for Fruit Trees
Whether a single citrus or a mini apple orchard, even the smallest landscape space can bear deliriously delicious fruit
Full StoryEDIBLE GARDENSHow to Add an Apple Tree to Your Edible Garden
Readily available, beautiful and fragrant, apple trees offer four-season interest along with crisp, juicy fruit
Full StoryTREESHow to Buy Healthy Trees and Shrubs
A healthy young plant with a strong form is more likely to do well in your yard. Here’s what to look for at the nursery
Full StoryEDIBLE GARDENSHow to Grow Your Own Peaches and Nectarines
Make gardening a little sweeter with these juicy fruits, which you can eat after plucking or preserve for later
Full StoryGARDENING GUIDESSpring Citrus Care Reaps Months of Sweet Rewards
Learn how to tend citrus trees in spring and ways to preserve their delicious fruit
Full StoryLANDSCAPE DESIGNRecipe for Tropical Edible Garden Style
Appeal to exotic good taste with fruit trees, palms and tropical look-alikes in your temperate-climate garden
Full StoryMore Discussions
iandyaz