I have a lemon tree which I grew from a seed. For most of its 20-plus years it has thrived (despite occasional bugs). But for the past six months or so it has been in distress, ever since I re-potted it and placed in a larger container. The leaves look as though they're not getting enough water (although I still make sure it's regularly watered). Some of the leaves are curling upwards and some have developed a slight brown tinge. I've tried spraying the leaves, but that doesn't seem to have any effect. It appeared to be quite root bound when I re-potted it, but I assumed that wouldn't be an issue once I placed it in the new pot. If anyone has any thoughts I would be pleased to hear them. Thanks in advance
Sounds like the soil mix may be a bit heavy. Lighten up on the water. Try a bit of bottom heat. In repotting I go one or two fingers larger, using a fast flowing soil mix. As far as the slight brown tinge, is this on the edge of the leaves? if so it is from the saults or salt buildup from the fertilizers, this is common. flush you container every two or three months. Best regards isaac
Larmont Sugarwater the symptoms you describe sound like you may have damaged the roots when you transplanted the tree. Also you say the tree was root bound. When I transplant a root bound tree, I use a pressure nozzle on a hose & spray out the root ball to remove all of the old soil. Once your roots are free of the old soil, you can gently fan them out in the new soil and container & water it in well. If your roots are damaged to the point that you need to prune them, remember that you need to prune the top of the tree as well to balance it out.
Lamont, because you just transplanted your tree using new soil, I strongly doubt that the soil can be heavy. I take it as a person that has successfully grown a containerized citrus tree for 20 years, (congratulations) you know what type of growth medium they require. Container soil becomes compact with time and repeated irrigation. I believe Laaz is correct in his assessment, of root damage, thus the roots are not able to send enough water to the leaves. The tree is curling the leaves in a protective measure. Be sure not to over water the tree, and many times in a month or so the problem will correct itself. As Laaz has said, when the roots are damaged, it often helps to reduce the amount of foliage. The best of luck to your tree. - Millet
Lamont. It's your call. You can ask for help over at http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/citrus/ and at http://www.citrusnorth.com/
