Meyer Lemon Tree for Sale - Reviews & Buying Guide
There's something magical about stepping into your backyard or onto your patio and plucking a fresh, sun-warmed lemon from your very own tree. For citrus enthusiasts and home gardeners alike, the Meyer lemon tree represents the perfect blend of ornamental beauty and practical fruit production. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just beginning your journey into home cultivation, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about purchasing, growing, and caring for a Meyer lemon tree.
Understanding the Meyer Lemon Tree
The Meyer lemon tree (Citrus × meyeri) is a citrus hybrid that has captured the hearts of gardeners and chefs worldwide. Unlike traditional lemons, Meyer lemons are believed to be a cross between a true lemon and a mandarin orange, resulting in a fruit that's sweeter, less acidic, and more aromatic than conventional varieties. The tree itself is compact, making it ideal for container growing and small spaces, while still producing an abundant harvest of golden-yellow fruit.
Originally introduced to the United States from China in 1908 by agricultural explorer Frank Meyer, these trees have become increasingly popular in recent decades. Their manageable size, typically reaching 6-10 feet when grown in containers and up to 15 feet when planted in the ground, makes them accessible to gardeners with limited space. The glossy, dark green leaves provide year-round visual interest, while the fragrant white blossoms that appear throughout the year fill the air with an intoxicating perfume.
Meyer lemons themselves are a culinary treasure. Their thin, smooth skin ranges from deep yellow to orange when fully ripe, and the flesh is incredibly juicy with a complex flavor profile that balances sweetness with just enough acidity. Chefs prize them for their versatility in both sweet and savory applications, from lemon curd and desserts to seafood dishes and cocktails.
Where to Buy Meyer Lemon Trees
Finding a quality Meyer lemon tree requires knowing where to look and what to look for. Several reputable sources offer these trees, each with their own advantages and considerations.
Local Nurseries and Garden Centers remain one of the best options for purchasing Meyer lemon trees. The primary advantage here is the ability to physically inspect the tree before purchase. You can examine the root system, check for signs of disease or pest damage, and assess the overall health and vigor of the plant. Local nurseries also typically stock varieties that are well-suited to your specific climate zone, and staff members can provide valuable advice on care and cultivation specific to your region. The downside is that selection may be limited, and prices can be higher than online options.
Online Specialty Citrus Nurseries have become increasingly popular and offer several advantages. Companies like Four Winds Growers, Fast Growing Trees, and Logee's specialize in citrus trees and ship nationwide. These nurseries often provide detailed growing information, guarantee their plants, and offer a wider selection of sizes and ages. The trees are typically shipped bare-root or in containers during appropriate planting seasons. While you can't inspect the tree before purchase, reputable online nurseries have strong quality control measures and customer service departments to address any issues.
Big Box Home Improvement Stores like Home Depot and Lowe's seasonally carry Meyer lemon trees, usually in spring and early summer. These can be convenient and affordable options, though the quality can be variable. The staff may not have specialized citrus knowledge, and the trees may have been stressed from inconsistent care. If purchasing from these retailers, inspect the tree carefully and ask when the shipment arrived to ensure you're getting fresh stock.
Mail-Order Catalogs and Agricultural Suppliers such as Stark Bro's and Gurney's have long histories of shipping fruit trees across the country. They offer detailed catalogs with growing information and typically provide guarantees on their plants. These companies often have seasonal sales and bundle deals that can make purchasing more economical.
What to Look for When Buying
Selecting a healthy Meyer lemon tree is crucial for long-term success. Whether shopping in person or online, certain characteristics indicate a quality plant.
Tree Size and Age matter significantly. Meyer lemon trees are typically sold in several sizes: small starter plants (1-2 feet), intermediate trees (2-4 feet), and mature specimens (4-6 feet or larger). Smaller trees are more affordable and adapt more easily to transplanting, but they'll take longer to produce fruit. Larger, more mature trees cost significantly more but may bear fruit within the first year. Consider your budget, patience level, and growing conditions when deciding on size.
Root System Health is paramount. If purchasing in person, gently remove the tree from its container (with permission) to inspect the roots. Healthy roots should be white to light tan, firm, and spread throughout the soil. Avoid trees with circling roots, mushy or dark roots, or those that are severely root-bound. For online purchases, reputable nurseries will describe their root systems and offer guarantees.
Foliage Condition tells you much about a tree's health. Leaves should be deep green, glossy, and free from yellowing, spots, or curling. Some leaf drop during shipping or transplanting is normal, but the tree should have abundant, healthy foliage. Check the undersides of leaves for pests like aphids, scale, or spider mites.
Branch Structure should be balanced and well-formed. Look for trees with multiple branches rather than a single stem, as this indicates better structure for future fruit production. The branches should be flexible but not brittle, with no signs of damage or disease.
Grafting Union is visible on most citrus trees as a slight bulge or change in bark texture near the base. This is where the Meyer lemon variety has been grafted onto rootstock. The union should be well-healed with no gaps or oozing. Most quality Meyer lemon trees are grafted onto disease-resistant rootstock, which improves their overall health and productivity.
Top-Rated Meyer Lemon Tree Sellers - Reviews
Four Winds Growers consistently receives outstanding reviews from customers and is considered the gold standard for citrus trees. Their Meyer lemon trees are grown in California and shipped in containers, arriving well-established and ready to thrive. Customers praise their excellent packaging, healthy specimens, and responsive customer service. Their trees typically range from 1-2 years old and 2-4 feet tall, with some bearing fruit upon arrival. Prices are moderate to high, but the quality justifies the investment. Many reviewers report their Four Winds trees producing fruit within the first year and thriving for many years with proper care.
Fast Growing Trees offers an excellent selection of Meyer lemon trees at competitive prices. Their trees arrive well-packaged and healthy, according to numerous customer reviews. They offer various sizes, from small starter trees to large, mature specimens. Their website provides detailed care instructions, and their customer service team is knowledgeable and helpful. Some customers note that smaller trees from this company may take 2-3 years to produce fruit, but they establish well and grow vigorously. Their guarantee policy provides peace of mind for buyers.
Logee's Tropical Plants has been in business since 1892 and specializes in tropical and subtropical plants, including citrus. Their Meyer lemon trees receive high marks for quality and are often shipped with blooms or small fruit already developing. Customers appreciate their detailed care tags and growing instructions. Logee's trees tend to be slightly more expensive but are well-established and acclimated to container growing. Reviews frequently mention the excellent root systems and the trees' ability to adapt quickly to new environments.
Stark Bro's Nursery offers Meyer lemon trees with their century-plus reputation backing them. Customer reviews are generally positive, with buyers appreciating their reasonable prices and reliable shipping. Their trees arrive dormant or semi-dormant during appropriate seasons, which some growers prefer as it reduces transplant shock. The company provides extensive growing guides and has a helpful customer service team. Some reviewers note that their trees may be slightly smaller than expected but establish well and grow quickly.
Local Nurseries (various) receive mixed but often excellent reviews depending on the specific establishment. The advantage of buying locally cannot be overstated—you can select your exact tree, get immediate advice, and avoid shipping stress. Many customers report that their locally-purchased Meyer lemon trees were already acclimated to local conditions and thrived immediately. Prices vary widely, but the ability to inspect before purchase and establish a relationship with knowledgeable staff makes this option attractive for many growers.
Price Ranges and What to Expect
Meyer lemon tree prices vary considerably based on size, age, and seller. Understanding the price ranges helps you budget appropriately and know what to expect for your investment.
Small Starter Trees (1-2 feet, 1-2 years old) typically range from $30 to $60. These are economical options for patient gardeners willing to wait 2-3 years for fruit production. They adapt easily to new environments and allow you to shape the tree's growth from an early stage.
Medium Trees (2-4 feet, 2-3 years old) generally cost between $60 and $120. These represent the sweet spot for many buyers—affordable yet mature enough to potentially produce fruit within the first year or two. They're established enough to handle transplanting well but not so large that they're difficult to manage.
Large, Mature Trees (4-6 feet or taller, 3-5 years old) range from $120 to $300 or more. These premium specimens often arrive with fruit already developing and will produce substantial harvests quickly. They're ideal for gardeners who want immediate results and are willing to invest more upfront.
Shipping Costs add $20-$50 to online orders, depending on tree size and destination. Some sellers offer free shipping during promotional periods or on orders over certain amounts.
Growing Conditions and Requirements
Successfully growing a Meyer lemon tree requires understanding and meeting its basic needs. These trees are surprisingly adaptable but thrive when given optimal conditions.
Climate and Hardiness are crucial considerations. Meyer lemon trees are hardy in USDA zones 8-11, tolerating temperatures down to about 20°F (-6°C) for short periods. In colder climates, they must be grown in containers and brought indoors during winter. They prefer warm, sunny conditions and will produce the most fruit when temperatures consistently range between 70-85°F during the growing season.
Sunlight Requirements are substantial—Meyer lemon trees need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production. South-facing locations are ideal. Insufficient light results in leggy growth, poor fruit set, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Soil Preferences include well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Citrus trees are particularly sensitive to poor drainage, which can lead to root rot. For container growing, use a high-quality citrus or palm potting mix. For in-ground planting, amend heavy clay soils with compost and sand to improve drainage.
Watering Needs require balance. Meyer lemon trees need consistent moisture but cannot tolerate waterlogged soil. Water deeply when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry, typically once or twice weekly during the growing season and less frequently in winter. Container trees dry out faster and may need more frequent watering.
Fertilization is essential for healthy growth and fruit production. Use a citrus-specific fertilizer that includes micronutrients, particularly iron, zinc, and manganese. Feed regularly during the growing season (spring through fall) according to package directions, and reduce or eliminate fertilization in winter.
Container Growing vs. In-Ground Planting
The decision between container and in-ground growing depends on your climate, space, and preferences.
Container Growing offers maximum flexibility, especially for gardeners in cold climates. Containers allow you to move trees indoors during winter, position them for optimal sun exposure, and control soil conditions precisely. Choose containers at least 15-20 gallons for mature trees, with adequate drainage holes. Terra cotta pots provide excellent drainage but dry out quickly; plastic containers retain moisture longer. Container trees require more frequent watering and fertilization than in-ground specimens but remain manageable in size.
In-Ground Planting is ideal for warm-climate gardeners in zones 9-11. Trees planted in the ground grow larger, require less frequent watering once established, and generally produce more fruit. Select a location with excellent drainage, full sun, and protection from strong winds. Space trees at least 10-15 feet from structures and other trees. In-ground trees are more cold-hardy than container specimens due to soil insulation around roots.
Seasonal Care and Maintenance
Meyer lemon trees require year-round attention, with care requirements varying by season.
Spring is the primary growing season. Increase watering as temperatures rise and new growth emerges. Begin regular fertilization. Prune to shape the tree and remove any dead or crossing branches. Watch for pest activity as temperatures warm.
Summer demands consistent watering, especially for container trees. Continue fertilization. Harvest ripe fruit regularly. Monitor for heat stress in extremely hot climates—provide afternoon shade if necessary. Watch for spider mites, which thrive in hot, dry conditions.
Fall sees continued fruit development and ripening. Reduce fertilization frequency as growth slows. Begin preparing container trees for indoor overwintering in cold climates. Harvest mature fruit before first frost.
Winter requires reduced watering and no fertilization for dormant or semi-dormant trees. Indoor trees need adequate light—supplement with grow lights if necessary. Maintain temperatures above 50°F for indoor trees. Protect outdoor trees from frost with covers or blankets when freezing temperatures threaten.
Common Problems and Solutions
Understanding potential issues helps you address them quickly and maintain tree health.
Yellowing Leaves often indicate nutrient deficiencies, particularly nitrogen or iron. Apply appropriate fertilizer or chelated iron. Overwatering can also cause yellowing—adjust watering schedule if soil remains soggy.
Leaf Drop can result from environmental stress, including temperature fluctuations, drafts, or changes in light levels. This is common when moving trees indoors for winter. Maintain consistent conditions and avoid placing trees near heating vents or cold windows.
Pests including aphids, scale, spider mites, and whiteflies can affect Meyer lemon trees. Inspect regularly and treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or appropriate pesticides. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
Poor Fruit Set may result from insufficient pollination, inadequate light, or nutritional deficiencies. Hand-pollinate indoor trees with a small brush. Ensure adequate sunlight and proper fertilization.
Conclusion
Purchasing a Meyer lemon tree represents an investment in years of beauty, fragrance, and delicious fruit. By choosing a reputable seller, selecting a healthy specimen, and providing appropriate care, you'll enjoy the rewards of homegrown Meyer lemons for many years to come. Whether you opt for a small starter tree or a mature specimen, whether you grow in containers or plant in the ground, the Meyer lemon tree offers an accessible entry into citrus cultivation that few other fruit trees can match.
The key to success lies in understanding your climate, providing adequate sunlight and water, maintaining proper nutrition, and staying vigilant against pests and diseases. With patience and attention, even novice gardeners can successfully grow these remarkable trees and experience the unparalleled satisfaction of harvesting their own premium citrus fruit.
As you embark on your Meyer lemon growing journey, remember that these trees are forgiving and resilient. They'll reward your care with glossy foliage, fragrant blooms, and abundant fruit that will transform your cooking and delight your senses. The investment you make today in a quality Meyer lemon tree will pay dividends in flavor, beauty, and gardening satisfaction for years to come.
