How to fix lemon tree to stand upright?

AJ-DIYer

Hi

My lemon tree doesn't really have a main trunk but the main branches are growing side way nothing in the middle. How do I fix it to stand upright? Would it fix itself eventually if I leave it?

Also, it has so many flowers, should I do anything to help it make more fruit?

MitchellMc

Hi @AJ-DIYer,

The first thing to note is that this is a dwarf lemon that often won’t naturally form a single upright trunk. It’s quite normal for the main branches to spread sideways, especially when the tree is young and vigorous.

One way to encourage a more upright shape is to choose the most vertical branch and gently tie it to a sturdy vertical stake. This branch can then act as the “leader,” and over time, the other branches will grow off it more naturally. Be careful not to tie it too tightly. You want the branch to be supported but still able to move slightly in the wind, which actually helps strengthen it.

As for the flowers, with a healthy, well-watered, and nourished tree, it should set fruit naturally. You can thin some flowers or early small fruit if the tree seems overloaded. This helps the remaining fruit grow bigger and prevents the branches from being weighed down too much. Fertilising with a citrus-specific fertiliser will also support both growth and fruiting. 

The lack of fruit setting is likely due to not enough pollinators, such as bees, being in the area. You can hand-pollinate to encourage more fruit.

Hand-pollinating your lemon tree is straightforward and can help improve fruit set when natural pollinators are scarce. Start by identifying open blossoms, which are usually white and fragrant with a visible cluster of yellow stamens in the centre. Using a small paintbrush or cotton swab, gently brush the stamens to collect the pollen. Then lightly transfer the pollen onto the stigma, which is the sticky centre of the same flower or another flower on the tree. Citrus flowers are only receptive for a few days, so it’s best to check your tree daily while flowers are open and repeat the process over a week or so.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell