Knowing when to pick lemons is the secret to getting the best flavor from your tree. It’s not just about color, and getting it right means you’ll enjoy that perfect, bright tartness in every use.
This guide will walk you through the simple signs of ripeness. We’ll cover how to test, how to pick, and how to store your homegrown lemons for maximum freshness.
When To Pick Lemons
Unlike some fruits, lemons do not continue to ripen after they are picked. This makes timing absolutely crucial. If you pick them to early, they will be dry, pithy, and lack juice. Leave them on the tree too long, and they can become overly thick-skinned and lose their vibrant acidity.
The good news is lemon trees often bear fruit year-round, giving you a long harvesting window. The main harvest for many varieties is in late winter through early spring, but you might find ripe fruit in other seasons too.
The True Signs of a Ripe Lemon
Forget what you think you know. A ripe lemon isn’t always just a bright yellow ball. Here are the key indicators to check for.
1. Color is a Clue, Not a Rule
A deep, uniform yellow is a classic sign. However, some varieties, like Meyer lemons, are ripe when they reach a deep yellow-orange hue. Even standard Eureka or Lisbon lemons can be ripe with a slight greenish tint at the stem end, especially in cooler climates.
If the entire fruit is mostly green, it’s likely not ready. Look for that strong yellow color developing over most of the skin.
2. The Feel and Texture Test
This is one of the most reliable methods. A ripe lemon will feel firm but with a slight give when you gently squeeze it. Think of the feel of a tennis ball, not a rock.
- Too Soft: Could be overripe, dehydrated, or starting to rot.
- Too Hard: Likely underripe and will be dry inside.
- Skin Texture: The skin should feel glossy and smooth. A very bumpy or wrinkling skin often indicates age or that it was left on the tree too long.
3. Size and Heft Matter
A ripe lemon will feel heavy for its size. This heaviness is a direct indicator of high juice content. Compare a few fruits on your tree; the ones that seem denser are usually the juiciest and ready to pick.
The fruit should also have reached its mature size for its variety. If it looks small and light, give it more time on the branch.
4. The Ultimate Taste Test (If You’re Brave)
If you’re still unsure, you can pick one suspect lemon and cut it open. A ripe lemon will have:
- Plump, juicy vesicles that are full of liquid.
- A vibrant, tangy smell that fills the air.
- A balanced flavor—brightly acidic but not painfully sour.
This sacrificial test can give you the best information for the rest of the crop.
How to Properly Pick a Lemon
Picking lemons correctly protects the tree and ensures the fruit stores well. You don’t want to damage the branch or leave a piece of stem on the fruit that can puncture others in storage.
- Use Sharp Tools: Use clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors. Don’t just pull or twist the fruit off, as this can tear the branch.
- Find the Stem: Locate the small stem (the peduncle) connecting the lemon to the branch.
- Make the Cut: Cut the stem about half an inch above the fruit’s top. You want to leave a tiny nub of stem on the lemon, not a long piece. This “button” helps prevent mold and rot at the top of the fruit during storage.
- Handle Gently: Place the picked lemons gently into a basket or bucket. Avoid piling them to high to prevent bruising.
What to Do With Picked Lemons
Freshly picked lemons don’t always need to go straight into the fridge. Here’s how to handle your harvest.
Short-Term Storage (1-2 Weeks)
If you plan to use them soon, store lemons at cool room temperature away from direct sunlight. A fruit bowl on the counter is fine. They will retain more juice and be easier to zest at room temp.
Long-Term Storage (Up to a Month or More)
For longer storage, place your lemons in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. The cold slows down dehydration and mold growth. The bag helps maintain humidity.
Check them every week or so for any soft spots.
Preserving the Bounty
If you have a large harvest, consider these preservation methods:
- Freeze the Juice: Juice the lemons and pour the juice into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for easy use in cooking or drinks.
- Freeze Zest: Zest several lemons and freeze the zest in a small container. It’s perfect for adding flavor to baked goods later.
- Make Preserved Lemons: A staple in many cuisines, preserved lemons are easy to make with just lemons, salt, and time.
Common Problems and Solutions
Sometimes, things don’t go perfectly. Here’s what might happen and what you can do.
Lemons Falling Off the Tree Early
If small, green fruits are dropping, it’s often a natural thinning process. The tree sheds some fruit to support the rest. If mature fruit drops, it could be due to underwatering, overwatering, or a sudden temperature change. Ensure consistent, deep watering.
Thick, Puffy Rinds
Very thick skins can result from over-ripening on the tree or from excessive nitrogen fertilizer. The fruit is still usable, but the juice content will be lower relative to the size. Focus on balanced fertilizer for the next growing season.
Dry or Pithy Fruit
This is almost always a sign of picking to early. The fruit hadn’t finished developing its juice sacs. Remember the weight test next time—a heavy feel is crucial.
FAQ: Your Lemon Picking Questions Answered
Can you pick lemons when they are green?
Yes, sometimes. In cooler climates, lemons may develop full flavor while still slightly greenish. Use the firmness and weight tests. If it’s firm, heavy, and has been on the tree for many months, it’s probably ripe even with some green.
How long do lemons take to ripen on the tree?
From flower to ripe fruit can take anywhere from 4 to 12 months, depending on the variety and climate. Patience is key. They will stay good on the tree for quite a while once ripe.
Do lemons ripen after they are picked?
No. They will not get sweeter or juicier off the tree. They may change color (from green to yellow) due to chlorophyll breaking down, but this is not true ripening. The flavor will not improve.
What time of year are lemons ready to pick?
Peak season is generally winter, but many trees produce sporadically throughout the year. Your best bet is to check for the ripeness signs regularly rather than relying solely on the calendar.
Why are my homegrown lemons not turning yellow?
Persistent greenness can be caused by warm night temperatures, which inhibit color breakdown. It can also be a varietal trait. If the fruit is mature in size, heavy, and slightly soft, it’s likely ripe enough to harvest.
Final Tips for Success
Trust your senses more than any single rule. The combination of color, feel, weight, and time on the tree gives you the full picture. Your tree is communicating with you.
Regular harvesting encourages the tree to produce more flowers and fruit. So don’t be afraid to pick those ripe lemons. The more you pick, the more you may get.
With these simple steps, you’ll be confidently picking lemons at their peak. That means better flavor for your kitchen, from a simple glass of lemonade to your favorite recipes that call for a bright, acidic touch. There’s nothing quite like the taste of a perfectly ripe lemon from your own garden.