Dwarf Meyer Lemon Graft Union Bark Splitting: Normal Aging or Problem?

Lisa's 44-year-old potted Meyer lemon (Los Angeles, full sun, sprinkler 3x/week, deep water in heat) shows bark splitting/peeling at trunk diameter change point. Branches thinning/brittle. Hot humid spell preceded splitting.

Expert Analysis

Steve identified the splitting area as the original graft union. Key points:

• Bark splitting may result from trunk swelling
• Extended wetness softens bark, causing splitting
• Keep trunk dry if possible
• Copper spray not needed currently
• Root-bound possible after 44 years—check by easing from pot
• If pot-bound: loosen roots, prune some, repot larger
• Check root health: white/cream color, don't pull apart when tugged

Follow-Up Clarification

Lisa asked about copper spray, root binding. Steve confirmed root binding possible after decades, provided checking method. The graft union splitting is largely age-related but exacerbated by moisture management.