Maybe from today you will start to hear a lot about the Meyer lemon tree, if you haven't come to this article precisely looking for information, because you have already come across it when consulting a recipe book or on television. Because Meyer lemons are becoming very popular among chefs due to the versatility they offer in the kitchen and, especially, when decorating dishes. Do you want to know them in depth? We tell you everything about Meyer lemon tree.
In addition to the advantages when cooking, there are those who decide to grow these trees at home because they are very attractive. And, if that were not enough, they are easy to care for, so they have everything going for them. Why not try it? If you have space for grow a meyer lemon tree, go ahead and try the experience.
What is a Meyer lemon tree?
El Meyer lemon tree is born from the union of a lemon and a type of tangerine. It should not surprise us if we take into account that in gardening and horticulture this crossing is something very common. What has surprised and very positively is the appearance of the lemon tree and, above all, the flavor of its fruits. And this is welcome news for those of us who enjoy fruit and citrus. It can also be the result of crossing lemon with orange. There are these two options.
What do Meyer lemons taste like?
What interests us, ultimately, is that the fruit it produces has a very pleasant flavor, because it is less acidic than lemon, although it retains the charm of its aroma. This makes it a perfect fruit for lovers of citrus fruits but who are more reluctant to consume lemon because they find it too strong. Are lemons without so much acidity and sweeter.
What is the origin of the Meyer lemon tree
To search for the origin of the Meyer lemon tree you have to go the China, because it was there where it was first cultivated. Although we know about them now, the truth is that this species has already existed for more than a century, since in 1908 it began to be consumed in the United States after an employee of the Department of Agriculture discovered it and was so surprised that he decided to take it to your country.
What is the Meyer lemon tree like and what are its lemons like?
From meyer lemon flavor We have already talked about it, as it has a sweet flavor, which the most sensitive palates accept better than the acidic flavor of common lemon. But what about his appearance? Here too it presents some notable differences that allow it to be recognized.
It is a fruit halfway between lemon and orange in terms of shape, that is, less oval than lemon, but also different from oranges because they are more round. It is also characterized by the color of its skin, which is of a yellowish tone looking orange, especially when it is already ripe.
How to use Meyer lemons in the kitchen
In the kitchen, these lemons can be used as a decorative element in dishes, both savory and in desserts and in sweet and sour recipes. Or also as the main ingredient in multiple preparations of ice creams, creams and other desserts, as well as, of course, in juices.
Botanical characteristics of the Meyer lemon tree
In case you are interested in knowing about botany, some relevant data about this species is that it belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is a citrus tree that develops in subtropical climates.
In addition to the fruits, hybrids between lemons and sweet oranges, the lemon tree also produces white flowers of beauty and good aroma.
How to grow your own Meyer lemon tree
The first thing you will have to do is acquire the seeds to grow it. If you consume its lemons, save its seeds so you can start planting them. Although, if you can't find these fruits where you live, you can always go to an online store or your trusted specialized store and order these seeds.
Choose a large pot so that the lemon tree can develop well. Or plant it in a plot of your garden that is also spacious. Bury the seeds to a depth of about 5 centimeters.
You can grow it indoors if you don't have valid outdoor space but you like the idea of having a mini Meyer lemon tree for your personal use and visual delight. But make sure the sun shines on it for at least 6 hours a day.
What does the soil have to be like to grow Meyer lemon trees?
The soil where you grow the lemon tree must be moderately acidic. If you provide it, it will grow faster and develop better.
How much watering does this lemon tree need?
El Meyer lemon tree It will ask you for moderate watering, avoiding waterlogging, which could lead to pests and root rot. Make sure the soil is not too wet before watering again.
Light needs
6 hours a day of sun will be enough, although if you receive more, the better. However, the ideal is to place it in semi-shaded area.
When does the Meyer lemon tree bloom and produce fruit?
The Meyer lemon tree has been in bloom since February and it may be giving us their wonderful presence and magical aroma until well into the month of October. This will be the case if it is in a temperate climate, with temperatures that are not too low, although it tolerates the cold well, as long as it is not extreme.
As for its fruits, you will have to wait for the tree to develop and reach maturity after approximately two years. It will be from the second season onwards when you can begin to see its lemons appear. At first they will be few, but the number of fruits will increase as the tree grows older and it is also a tree that will live for many years if you take good care of it.
Once it has fruit, these citrus fruits will be ripening in late fall. So from this date you can collect them or leave them on the tree until you want to consume them. Once you try them, the lemons Meyer lemon tree They will conquer you and watching this tree grow will be a rewarding experience.