Improved Meyer Lemon Leaf Drop: Water and Pest Management

Gift Tree Losing Leaves, Flowers, and Fruit

Improved Meyer lemon received in September, steadily losing leaves. Some leaves sticky, yellowing, with dark green dots. Tiny fruit dropping.

Primary Issue: Underwatering

Container citrus in Florida needs daily watering; in-ground needs 3.5+ inches weekly. Insufficient water causes fruit drop, dry fruit, no maturity.

Secondary Issue: Sap-Sucking Insects

Sticky leaves indicate insects (scale, aphids, whiteflies). Use 100% pure neem oil—absorbs into leaves, doesn't wash off, alters taste so bugs leave. Also fungicide and miticide.

Action Plan

1. Increase watering immediately.
2. Spray neem oil thoroughly, including leaf undersides.
3. Repeat on new growth only.