Meyer lemons (Citrus meyerii) are considered a cross between lemon and mandarin orange. Introduced into the U.S. in 1908, they are very popular in the home landscape. Meyer lemon is a small tree, does well in small gardens, and prefers warm climates, full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Meyer lemon is affected by the same common diseases of other citrus.
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Citrus tristeza virus is a serious disease of citrus worldwide. The ‘Improved Meyer Lemon’ variety is resistant to tristeza. Symptoms of tristeza virus occurring in Meyer lemon are similar to other diseases causing root injury, according to Texas Agricultural Extension literature.
Slow growth, thinning foliage, twig death and tree collapse under severe conditions result from tristeza virus. Inside the bark of tristeza-infected trees, a honeycomb appearance is seen and is a diagnostic symptom. Control of citrus tristeza virus includes using resistant rootstock (citrus is commonly grafted) and control of disease-spreading insects, such as aphids.
Symptoms of sooty mold on meyer lemon trees show up as a thin black mat of mold on fruit, leaves, stems and branches. This is commonly caused by whiteflies, scales, aphids, and mealybugs.
Fungus grows where “honeydew” is excreted by insects. High levels of sooty mold reduce photosynthesis and delay fruit coloring. Abundance of sooty mold indicates a problem with insect infestation. Insect control reduces buildup of honeydew and sooty mold.
Greasy spot fungus appear as greasy-looking spots on citrus leaves just below the surface of the leaf. The leaves function for 2 to 3 years, but eventually drop. Leaf drop is substantial in severe cases of greasy spot.
Weakened by the disease, citrus trees are more susceptible to other disease and pests and are less protected during frosts. Fruit damage appears as pinpoint black specks on the rind. The best control of greasy spot is removal and destruction of fallen citrus leaves near the infected tree before summer rains occur. Oil and copper sprays are also available for control.
Foot rot is a fungus which usually causes lesions that begin near the bud union (where grafted trees are joined together). Lesions will either grow upward on downward on the trunk and will appear as patches of water-soaking of the bark and oozing of gum.
Progression may be limited if the tree creates callous or scar tissue around the affected region. Citrus tree canopies will show nutrient deficiencies, leaf and fruit size reduction, dropping leaves, and general poor growth. High moisture content soil encourages the organisms that cause foot rot.
Symptoms usually occur after long periods of rain or excess irrigation. Control foot rot by planting trees higher on a mound or raised area if poor drainage is a problem.
Encourage circulation around the tree base and remove plant debris and decaying material on the ground. Fungicides, as well as resistant rootstock, are available from reputable nurseries and garden centers.
Grow Meyer lemon trees and enjoy great lemons by keeping an eye on tree health. Spotting or preventing these diseases early results in an optimum Meyer lemon fruit harvest.
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