Sorrento Lemon Seedlings Leaf Fading I have four lemon seedlings from Sorrento Italy (ST. Theresa Feminello), they are 4 to 6" in height. Two of them are growing and the other two are struggling with short growth and yellowing of the leaves. I have put them outside for the last three-5 days and have noticed the leaves on the big ones begin to turn white. I have read this could be mineral def, however could tis be a direct effect of the sun. I am also having difficulty trying to get the right soil mixture for these trees. Can anyone offer advice on , how to create a good soil mixture (these are going to be in pots), 2. when to water them (how often), 3. what to put in the water (water mineral requirements). and anything else you can offer in order to get these guys to grow. Lastly how long will it take to get fruit? thanks Tony
Any citrus tree that is named after as great a saint as Saint Theresa certainly deserves help. First, you did not say what size container the trees are planted in, but putting a small 6 inch seedling tree in a big container is a sure killer. A 4-6 inch seedling citrus should be in a container about 4 inche pot. Be sure that the growth medium has EXCELLENT drainage. If you are using a commercial potting mix, then add and equal amount of small sized pine, cedar (hamster bedding) or CHC chips. If you can't locate these chips, add an equal amount of perlite. 2. Water only in the morning, then put the trees in an area where the surface of the "soil" can quickly dry, this will prevent fungus problems. 3. The white leaves are probably caused by being sun burnt. If your trees have not previously been growing in direct sun, they should slowly be adjusted to direct sunlight. Feed your tree with a commercial fertilizer at 1/2 of the labeled rate, a minimum of once a month, once every two weeks is better. Lastly, absolutely, everything you will need to know about the care of your trees, can be found by reading through this forum. A seedling lemon will take between 5 -8 years to begin fruiting, depending how how well you provide for the trees. Good luck to your tree. - Millet
