How To Save Lemon Plant For Diseases

Some people question me that

Q: recently purchased an 18″ tall potted Meyer lemon tree. It was loaded with buds and had four 3/4 inch lemons. I placed it in a screened porch that gets light most of the day. I fertilized it with an acid fertilizer and watered per instructions. Recently the lower leaves have yellowed and fallen off, the buds are falling off and the lemons are turning yellow. Can you please advise as to what to do to keep from losing this tree?
Thanks in advance.

ANSWER:
Congratulations on your new tree! Meyer lemons are the very best in my opinion, but they can be a little bit fussy in pots. A range of conditions can lead to immediate and rather startling leaf drop. I find it can take some adjustment before you hit on the right formula that meets their needs and gets things back on track.

All citrus trees grown in pots thrive on a balance of three things: bright light, consistent moisture and good drainage. The first thing that came to mind when you described your plant was the shift in growing conditions that plants experience when moved from a garden center to their new home. Citrus trees tend to be extra sensitive to that shift and what seems like a minor change in light intensity or the amount of humidity or water it receives can cause leaves and developing fruit to drop almost overnight.

Sunlight: Lemon trees need eight hours of direct sun per day. You can get away with six, especially during the winter off-season, but bright light is required for good fruit production. If the light coming through your porch screen is filtered, it may not be enough. Is there any chance that you can put the tree outside for the rest of the summer? My citrus trees have always flourished with this treatment. Regardless of what I thought they were getting inside, nothing beat those months outdoors. If you go this route I suggest placing it in a protected spot with partial shade for a few weeks so that the tree can adjust, and gradually moving it out into direct light.