My Citrus sinensis is losing its leaves and isn’t growing new ones. It seems to be focusing on growing a sucker branch. How can I encourage it to grow proper branches and leaves again?
It’s pumping whatever energy it has into that fruit. Consider removing the fruit to redirect energy back to the tree itself. Give it as much light as possible and keep it warm.
Cameron said:
It’s pumping whatever energy it has into that fruit. Consider removing the fruit to redirect energy back to the tree itself. Give it as much light as possible and keep it warm.
I hope it’s worth it 
It already lost one fruit when it survived a hail storm outside.
@Toby
It’s best to focus on the health of the tree. Plucking the fruit will help. Think of it as putting the oxygen mask on yourself before helping others.
@Toby
It’s possible the tree isn’t mature enough to handle fruit production yet. Focus on proper light, temperature, and fertilization to ensure its overall health.
Citrus rarely does well indoors without dedicated artificial lighting, especially if it’s fruiting.
With indoor conditions, focus on keeping the plant alive until it can go back outside in the spring. Think dormancy—lower temperatures and more light will help.
Dawson said:
Do you want to keep it inside permanently? How are the temperature, humidity, and light levels?
I took it inside when the temperatures dropped and will put it back outside in the spring. The room has a large window, but winters are mostly cloudy. Humidity is around 49% and the temperature is 21.5°C. Should I move it closer to the window?
My lemon tree went through full dieback during last winter’s leaf drop but bounced back in the spring. Take notes on what you’re doing now to make adjustments for next winter.
Transplant it into a bigger pot. If the roots can’t grow, the tree can’t sustain a larger canopy.
Did you just move it? Many plants lose leaves as they adapt to new locations. Winter heating can also dry out the air.
Landry said:
Did you just move it? Many plants lose leaves as they adapt to new locations. Winter heating can also dry out the air.
I moved it two months ago when temperatures dropped. Humidity is around 49% and the apartment stays around 20°C without heating.
Are you fertilizing? Try a liquid seaweed feed once a week. Since it’s indoors, adjust the frequency. Pots run out of nutrients quickly, and fruit production requires a lot of energy.
Arin said:
Are you fertilizing? Try a liquid seaweed feed once a week. Since it’s indoors, adjust the frequency. Pots run out of nutrients quickly, and fruit production requires a lot of energy.
I repotted it into a larger container with citrus-specific soil, but it’s still losing leaves. I’m just worried it won’t survive.