'Yen Ben' Lemon

What is the 'Yen Ben' Lemon season?

The 'Yen Ben' Lemon is a quick-growing, evergreen shrub that produces fruit year-round once established, though most are made in winter. It is a popular lemon variety because of its smooth, thin skin and low seed numbers. The fruit are bright yellow, oval, relatively easy to peel, and have a strong lemon flavour. This heavy cropper typically grows to 3 m tall and the same wide, but can be trimmed as necessary. Best performance with this variety is achieved when it is grown in full sun on a well-drained, sheltered site, protected from heavy frost, though it will tolerate moderate frost once established. The Yen Ben Lemon is commonly included in a mixed planting or maintained either in a container or in a courtyard garden.

What is the optimum soil pH for the 'Yen Ben' Lemon tree?

The optimum soil pH for a 'Yen Ben' Lemon tree is slightly acidic, ideally ranging between 5.5 and 6.5. This pH range allows the Yen Ben Lemon tree to efficiently absorb essential nutrients from the soil, such as iron, manganese, and zinc. If the soil pH is too high (alkaline), these nutrients can become locked up and unavailable to the tree, leading to deficiencies like iron chlorosis (yellowing of leaves with green veins).

'Yen Ben' Lemon tree care tips

Caring for a 'Yen Ben' Lemon tree is relatively easy with a few key tips. The site chosen for them must be sheltered, well-drained, and in full sun. Yen Ben lemons are relatively hardy but still need protection from hard frosts, especially when young. After planting, be sure to mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Water regularly, especially during the first year to establish a strong root system and during dry periods. Mature trees require less frequent watering, but they benefit from a thorough drenching when watered. Yen Ben Lemon trees are heavy feeders and should be fed with a generous dose of citrus fertiliser in spring. Prune the trees lightly to maintain a desired shape and size, especially if grown in a container. Monitor your tree regularly for common citrus pests like aphids, scale, mealybugs, and mites. These are easily controlled with an insecticide. Yen Ben Lemon trees are self-fertile and don't need another tree for pollination to produce fruit.

What is the best soil for a 'Yen Ben' Lemon tree?

The best soil for a 'Yen Ben' Lemon tree needs to be well-draining, slightly acidic, and fertile. The trees are susceptible to root rot if their roots are in sodden soil for extended periods. The soil should allow excess water to drain away freely. The optimal soil pH is between 5.5 and 6.5. This range ensures the tree can properly absorb essential nutrients. They are heavy feeders and need a soil that can provide adequate nutrients for healthy growth and fruit production. Therefore, loam soil is perfect, as are sandy soils loaded with compost or other organic matter. For container planting, choose a potting mix specifically formulated for citrus or fruit trees. These mixes are designed to provide good drainage and aeration.

Where to buy 'Yen Ben' Lemon trees in NZ

The Plant Company has the best 'Yen Ben' Lemon trees to buy in NZ. Our production nursery specialises in grafting and growing amazing plants, and our logistics team packs them carefully for our customers. The pricing is competitive and the quality is exceptional. Let us look after your plant needs and impress you with both our products and service!

Why Buy From The Plant Company?

Our citrus trees are grown for NZ gardens, selected for vigour, fruiting, and hardiness. When you buy from The Plant Company, you get expert advice, quality plants, and fast, secure shipping—so your lemon tree arrives ready to thrive.