I was looking online for some help and stummbled upon this site; looks like If there any answers this might be the best place to ask. This lemon tree was planted in my garden right before we moved in. Its been more than 20 years now. In its prime it would give amaizing sized lemons , and was covered with leaves. I've noticed for some time now how its been turning for the worst. As you can see there are alot of bear branches and the amount of leaves is no where near what it was. Id say its about 10-12 feet tall give or take. I really hope there's something I an do about it. Any help would be greatly appreciated
Older citrus plantings sometimes reach the sad point where the tree can only eke out a miserable existence, but they sometimes manage to survive and bear a scant crop. Insects and diseases pray upon them, and the tops of the trees usually contain much dead or dying wood. The bringing back into fruitfulness of such a planting presents many problems, but *if* the ground is good and the tree is sound in root, trunk, and larger branches, it can be done. Citrus trees are very responsive to good treatment, and worth while results can be secured, in many cases, in a remarkably short time. All dead and dying wood should be pruned out, and the heads reduced to such space as will leave only good wood from which new growth may start. Preferably, this pruning out should be performed in the winter. There should be no thought of a crop of fruit in the following season, rather full attention should be given only to bringing the tops of the tree back into proper shape and condition. Moss and lichens should be cleaned out. Before pruning, a careful study should be made of the diseases and insect pest, and, on its completion, these should be given proper treatment immediately. Any native trees or shrubs which have become established should be cleared away, and well in advance of the spring growing season the tree should be be fertilized. The fertilizer should be of the same kind and quality as would be applied to young non-bearing trees. After fertilizing if plenty of mulching is available, it may be generously applied about the tree, but should keep at least 1-foot away from the trunk at all times. A second fertilizing would be given about June 1. From this time on, the tree should be handled the same as a young tree and usually they can be brought into satisfactory bearing. The very best of luck and good fortune to this tree. - Millet
