The best time to prune a lemon tree is at the beginning of the summer because the lemon tree's growth slows down.

Commonly called lemon tree, the Citrus Limonum is a very popular tree in places like Spain, where the weather stimulates its development. This evergreen fruit tree of the citrus family came to the Iberian Peninsula from Asia, via the Muslims.


The fact that it is strong and can even grow in good sized pots means that it is very common and can be seen in gardens, patios and also on terraces. It is not a very rigorous tree, but it needs some basic care and regular pruning.

In order to keep it in an optimal state and to ensure that it expands strong and healthy, it is advisable to prune it annually, which helps to clean up its branches and allows it to concentrate its sap and energy in its main branches, which will thus become stronger.

It is best to prune the lemon tree between the months of June and July, although there are probably exceptions to this, and pruning at the right time is essential.

Pruning at the right time is essential in order not to lose the crop. Lemon trees that are pruned correctly tend to bear more fruit and their branches will not break, because the wood of pruned trees becomes harder and stronger.

Pruning the lemon tree also depends on the age of the tree.

Since there are some variants. in which case the tree has to be cared for. In these situations, poorly formed branches must be pruned. If the lemon tree already has fruit, the best time to prune it is when it has finished producing lemons, always making sure that there is no danger of frost.

It is advisable to do this pruning before the tree starts to produce lemons or when it has finished producing lemons.

Lemon tree: the first pruning

In general, it is preferable not to prune the lemon tree until it is 3 years old, as it can still be quite fragile and such early pruning could damage the tree. So up to this age, it should only be pruned if there is a badly formed branch, in which case it would be wise to prune it and not wait to prune it.



Many professionals affirm that, if you want the tree to produce more exuberant and tasty fruits, it is advisable to cut the first flowers and fruits that the lemon tree generates every year, as it is a way to encourage the production and be able to produce a larger proportion of fruits. As for pruning, it should not be excessively combative, unless the tree is diseased or shows signs of weakness.

The most important thing is that pruning of the lemon tree should not take place during night frosts.

Pruning in frosty weather can be a problem for the lemon tree because it is not protected against frost and the consequences are likely to be worse. And the fact of selecting the moment before fruiting or after harvesting is because this is when its development stops.

To prune a lemon tree correctly, just follow a few simple steps:

• Give the branches a clean cut with previously disinfected material to prevent pathogens from entering the branches.
• It is important to shape the lemon tree correctly, choosing the main and secondary branches in good time so that it is balanced and does not lean or invade other trees.
• The lower part of the tree should preferably be cut back, as they hinder the penetration of light to the plant, preventing the supply of vital energy for its development. It is advisable to respect about 30 centimetres.

Finally, bear in mind that pruning your lemon tree is essential, make sure that it is regularly provided with basic water, that it has an optimum substrate, fertilise it in accordance with its stage and age and be aware of possible pests and combat them with the most natural procedures that are feasible.