Caring for a Meyer Lemon Tree: Fertilizing and Rat Deterrence

Fertilizer Recommendations

Meyer lemons thrive with an acidic, nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Ideal formulations include:

• Azalea/camellia fertilizer (e.g., 30-10-10)
• Citrus-specific fertilizer with a 5-1-3 ratio (N-P-K) plus micronutrients
• Any acid-loving plant fertilizer containing iron, zinc, and manganese

Apply per label rates in early spring, early summer, and late summer. Avoid high-phosphorus formulas that promote excessive flowering at the expense of foliage.

Addressing Yellowing Leaves and Deformed Fruit

Yellow leaves often indicate nitrogen deficiency or root stress from over/under-watering. Deformed fruit can result from irregular watering, nutrient imbalances, or pest feeding.

Rat Control

1. Trapping: Set snap traps or live traps baited with peanut butter near the tree base and along fences.
2. Exclusion: Install a metal trunk guard (24 inches tall) to prevent climbing.
3. Sanitation: Promptly harvest ripe fruit and remove fallen fruit daily.

Identify the culprit first—rats, squirrels, or birds—then tailor control.