Let’s be real: the lemon tree (bot. *Citrus x limon*) and the typical American climate aren’t always the best of friends, especially if you live outside of the Sun Belt. In many parts of the country, it rains way too much, and the winters get downright freezing—basically the exact opposite of what a citrus plant craves.
The Perfect Vibe
A lemon tree doesn’t actually need a whole lot to be happy. If you want to create the perfect “home away from home” for your citrus plant, it really comes down to two things:
- Plenty of sun
- Plenty of warmth
Unfortunately, for a good chunk of the year, most US states don’t naturally provide this. From late fall through mid-May, it might be sunny, but it’s usually way too chilly for a lemon tree to stay outside. Even during the summer months, long stretches of rainy, humid weather can be a bit much for these Mediterranean beauties.
Growing Lemon Trees in Containers
Because our weather can be so unpredictable, planting a lemon tree directly in the ground isn’t an option for most of us. However, you can absolutely grow them in pots as long as you protect them from the cold and heavy rain.
Keeping it as a Year-Round Houseplant
If you keep your lemon tree indoors all year, you can definitely provide the warmth it loves. The trade-off? It’ll miss out on that intense, direct sunlight it can only get under the open sky.
Lemon Trees on the Patio or Balcony
Giving your lemon tree a sunny spot on the balcony or patio is the closest you can get to its natural habitat during the warmer months. Just make sure you don’t move it outside until:
- The threat of late spring frost has completely passed.
- Nighttime temperatures are consistently staying around 50°F (10°C) or higher.
Once the temperatures start dipping below 50°F regularly in the late summer or fall, it’s time to bring your citrus buddy back inside.
Winter Care for Your Lemon Tree
Lemon trees are definitely not fans of cold winters, mostly because the days get so short and dark. To keep yours happy, you’ll need to find the brightest spot possible for overwintering. Great options include:
- A bright, cool (but not freezing) entryway or stairwell.
- A frost-free sunroom or conservatory with tons of light.
Whatever you do, make sure the temperature in its winter home:
- Never drops below 41°F (5°C).
- Stays relatively consistent without big swings.
If you don’t have a cool spot, you can also overwinter it in a warm room at normal household temperatures, provided it gets enough light. Just be sure to keep it away from cold drafts!
