Will my lemon tree grow leaves back?

Yes, once the stressor is removed, the tree will grow new leaves. It may take a few weeks to see new buds.

Is it normal for my lemon tree to lose leaves in winter?

If the light levels drop significantly indoors, the tree may shed leaves. Try to provide as much direct sun as possible during the winter months.

Why is my lemon tree losing its leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the tree was recently moved.
Feel the soil to see if it is too dry or too wet.
Look for signs of pests on the fallen leaves.

Likely causes

Sudden environmental change
Most likely
How to tell: The tree drops leaves shortly after being moved to a new spot or after a temperature shift. It is reacting to the change in light intensity.
What to do: Keep the tree in a spot with consistent full sun. Avoid moving it frequently so it can acclimate to its surroundings.
Inconsistent watering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or brown before falling off. The soil may be bone dry for too long or constantly soaked.
What to do: Establish a rhythm of watering every 5 to 10 days. Water deeply until it runs out the bottom, then wait for the top few centimeters to dry.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your lemon

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

It is normal for a few old leaves to drop occasionally. You should worry if the tree is losing many leaves at once or if the new growth is falling off.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a stable environment with plenty of direct sunlight and consistent watering habits.

Lemon: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your lemon and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will my lemon tree grow leaves back?: Yes, once the stressor is removed, the tree will grow new leaves. It may take a few weeks to see new buds.
Is it normal for my lemon tree to lose leaves in winter?: If the light levels drop significantly indoors, the tree may shed leaves. Try to provide as much direct sun as possible during the winter months.

Why is my lemon tree losing its leaves?