Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Stick your finger 5 centimeters into the soil to check for moisture.
- Lift the pot to see if water is pooling in the saucer.
- Gently pull the tree out of the pot to inspect the root color.
Likely causes
Overwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The leaves turn yellow and drop, and the soil feels soggy or smells sour. The roots will look mushy and dark instead of firm and white.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 5 centimeters of soil dry out. If the rot is severe, repot the tree into fresh, well draining soil and trim away the black, mushy roots.
Poor drainage
PossibleHow to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The pot may lack drainage holes or the soil mix is too dense.
What to do: Ensure your pot has large drainage holes at the bottom. Mix perlite or coarse sand into your potting soil to improve airflow.
When to worry
If the roots are black and smell like rotting vegetation, the plant is in critical condition. If the roots are still firm and white, you can save it by adjusting your watering.
Stopping it coming back
Always wait until the top few centimeters of soil feel dry before watering again. Never let the pot sit in a saucer of standing water.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your lemon.
This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- How often should I water my lemon tree?
- Water every 5 to 10 days, but always check the soil moisture first. Never water on a strict schedule if the soil is still wet.
- Can I save a tree with root rot?
- Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots and repot in fresh, dry soil.
More problems with Lemon
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.