Lemon tree

[Localher0]

Has anyone planted a lemon tree in the ground and had success? We live in SW London so the temperature is quite mild and we rarely get frosts. I think the label in the tree said 5 degrees minimum but I’ve lost it now and can’t check. Right now it’s in a pot and doing well but I’d love to be able to have it permanently planted…..

Never tried it permanently outside, I’m in SE and we do get snow and frost.
But what I would say is that it is a tree that absolutely needs to be outside whenever possible.
They just don’t do well as permanent houseplants in my experience.

I think a sheltered spot against a wall would be your best bet so it benefits from the radiant heat and is protected from cold winds. I live in Tuscany and they are mostly grown in (often huge) pots here and usually wrapped in fleece in winter, but when I see big lemon/orange trees planted in the ground they’re almost always tucked away against a wall.

Thanks - that’s very helpful. I think I’ll err on the side of caution and keep in a big pot. I can get my son to bring it in when it gets chilly…..

Just resurrecting this thread as I planted it in a pot and it has done really well. Although the lemons are still green and I don't think they're going to ripen now!
Anyways - what overnight temperature should I start to bring it in? Or can I wrap it in fleece to keep warm?

@Localher0

Just resurrecting this thread as I planted it in a pot and it has done really well. Although the lemons are still green and I don't think they're going to ripen now! Anyways - what overnight temperature should I start to bring it in? Or can I wrap it in fleece to keep warm?

They might ripen - isn’t spring orange and lemon season in the Med?