Climate matters. This page is a practical baseline. Confirm cultivar, local frost/heat conditions, mature size and regional restrictions before planting.
Lemon — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Citrus limon |
|---|---|
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 1095–2190 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 304.8–548.6 |
| Mature height (cm) | 243.8–548.6 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 243.8–487.7 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 9–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Transplant |
Growing directions
Lemons are self-fertile and can bloom and fruit year-round in frost-free climates; Eureka and Lisbon are the commercial standards, while Meyer lemon is hardier (damaged below 22°F) and better suited to containers in cooler climates. Plant in well-drained, slightly acidic soil and fertilize with citrus-specific fertilizer three times per year. In zones 8–9, grow in large containers and bring indoors when temperatures drop below 28°F. Fruit is ready when fully yellow, slightly soft, and the rind is thin — do not wait for it to fall off the tree.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0