Citrus × meyeri, commonly called Meyer’s lemon, is native to China. It was introduced into the U.S. by Frank Meyer who reportedly found the plant in 1908 near Peking, China. It is believed to be a hybrid cross of C. limon (lemon) and C. reticulata (mandarin orange). It is less acidic, juicier and sweeter than common lemons.
Soil conditions when growing these lemons should be well-draining; however, the soil must hold enough water to remain moist. Allow soil to dry out only slightly between waterings.
Fertilize regularly when growing Meyer lemons. A high nitrogen fertilizer, such as one designed for citrus trees, is best fed monthly between April and September. Withhold fertilizer during autumn and winter months. Yellowing leaves indicate the need for either water or fertilizer.
Philodendrons grow best in soil that is consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of the soil is dry, keeping in mind that soil in unglazed clay or ceramic containers tends to dry out faster than soil in plastic or glazed containers.
Prune lemon fruit clusters to one or two fruits when the little lemons are marble-sized. Pruning before fruit develops, removing all but one bud in a cluster, is also an effective way to grow larger lemons.
These plants prefer a temperature range of 55-65°F at night and 70-80°F during the day. They like well-draining soil that's fairly rich in organic matter. If you're transplanting into containers, place some drainage material such as gravel in the bottom of the pot.
