I was given an indoor lemon tree by a friend about 4 years ago. Every winter when I bring it in from the outside, the leaves start to excrete what looks to be some kind of oil. Is this normal? I am seeing no fungi. Also, the tree has never produced fruit.
If the "oil" has a sticky feeling, then it is actually the excretions from insects. Probably scale, mealy bug, or aphids. As to the tree not yet fruiting, was the tree started from a seed? Millet Anton van Leeuwenhoek Founder of Polyembryony in oranges 1719
Yes it was started from a seed. I am still trying to find a branch of one that is producing fuit, as I can graft it. The oily substance looks oily, but is sort of sticky, and does not seem to come off the leaves by touch alone. Its on every leaf, on both sides. Water seems to wash it off nicely. Worst part is, this oily substance leaks onto the floor around the tree. I have posted some shots of the leaves. I think you might be right on the bugs. Would they pose a threat to the tree? What can I do to get rid of them? Thanks.
A seed grown lemon will take 7-10 years to fruit unless grafted with mature wood. There are two good non-toxic options for killing bugs on citrus-- soap and oil--you can put about a tablespoon of dishwashing liquid in a gallon of water and spray or get a horticultural oil and mix acording to directions. You can also add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the soap solution if you want. Skeet
It looks like there's an infestation of both scale and spider mite. I use insecticidal soap on these pests.
