Garden · Plants · Mediterranean
Lemon Tree in a Pot care, overwintering and everything I have learned
I always wanted a lemon tree. The idea of getting up in the morning, walking to the terrace, picking a lemon directly from your own tree – there is something magical about that. The reality is a little more sober: lemon trees are demanding and react sensitively to mistakes. But they are worth it. My lemon tree has been with me for three years now, bears a few fruits every year (not many, but real ones!), and is the most talked-about feature on my terrace.
Last updated: 2026-06-03
What lemon trees really need sun, warmth and the right compost
Lemon trees come from the Mediterranean and want to feel it: lots of sun, warmth, no waterlogging, no frost. The main problem in Germany: winter. Lemon trees are not frost-hardy and must go into a bright, cool winter quarters.
1 · Watering, feeding and overwintering the three critical points
Keep evenly moist, never let dry out completely, never leave standing in water. Use soft water – rainwater is ideal. Hard tap water leads to chlorosis (yellowing leaves). Use specialist citrus fertiliser every fortnight from March to October.
Overwintering: bright and cool, between 5-12°C. A bright stairwell is often better than a dark living room. Barely water, do not feed. From March start slowly increasing watering.
2 · Why the leaves fall the most common problems
Leaf drop almost always has a clear cause: winter quarters too dark, watering errors, temperature shock when moving in or out (acclimatise slowly), or spider mites (check the underside of leaves regularly).
Frequently Asked Questions quick and clear answers
How do I care for a lemon tree in a pot?
Full sun, specialist citrus compost, water evenly with soft water, citrus fertiliser every fortnight (March-October), bright and cool winter quarters between 5-12°C.
Why do lemon tree leaves fall off?
Usually winter quarters too dark, watering errors (too much or too little), temperature shock or spider mites. Address the cause and the tree usually recovers.
Can a lemon tree overwinter outside?
No – lemon trees are not frost-hardy and must come inside when frost threatens. Inside from October when night frosts are expected, back outside only from mid-May.
About the author
Jona · Villa Bloom & Co.
I write about country house style, garden, terrace and cosy living – from genuine conviction and personal experience. Everything I recommend here I have tried myself. More about me →