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Give a Gift That Keeps on Giving; Lemon Trees

No one knows where the lemon tree originated. Some experts have placed its origin in India, while others have placed it in southern Italy around 200 AD. It was cultivated in Egypt, Iran, Sicily, and China before being introduced across the Mediterranean region by the Arabs after 1000 AD. It has been said that Christopher Columbus brought lemon seeds to Hispaniola in 1493 and that the Spaniards brought lemon trees to Florida. It is now grown in many warm climates and sold all around the world.

Lemon trees generally grow well in warm climates and often have fragrant white flowers. There are many varieties of lemon. The most common one found in grocery stores is the Eureka lemon. Eureka lemons trees are usually large with the fruit growing in clusters. The skin is thick and the fruit is quite acidic.

If you want to grow your own lemon trees, you should find a variety that is right for your area. Most lemon trees are sensitive to frost and like mild winters. They should be planted in a sunny area where the soil drains well. They should be watered deeply every week, fertilized every month, and pruned every year. Lemon trees are not that difficult to grow as long as you give them basic care. They can even be grown indoors as long as they have enough light and are put outside during the summer so they can be pollinated. For those who do not have the space, dwarf lemon trees should be considered as they make a perfect addition to any home or garden.

Lemon trees make perfect plant gifts because they are easy to care for and will eventually bear fruit throughout the year. Lemon trees will not wither and die after a few days; they will continue to give for years to come. They are easy to buy as most nurseries carry a selection of the trees. You can also sit down at your computer, click the mouse a few times, and order one online. Lemon trees can be delivered to a relative or friend in most every area. If you want to spruce up your gift, you can add some gourmet nuts, chocolate covered berries, or other snack item that will compliment the lemon tree.

Lemon tree very pretty
And the lemon flower sweet
But the fruit of the poor lemon
Is impossible to eat.

Those words from an old Peter, Paul, and Mary song describe what most people think of lemons. Yes, they are sour and are not eaten like oranges or grapefruit. However, they have many uses and should be a staple of any home. They can be utilized as a flavoring and are especially good for fish. They can be used in many different recipes to add some zest. Lemons are often used as a household cleaning product to remove stains from kitchen surfaces, clothes, and hands. They can be used on skin and hair either alone or in combination with other ingredients. They can also be used as an odor neutralizer in refrigerators, cat boxes, humidifiers, and garbage disposals.

The gift of a lemon tree is a plant gift that will keep on giving, and giving, and giving some more. Whether it's for Mother's Day, an anniversary, a birthday, Secretary's Fay and any other holiday or occasion, lemon trees are one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give either to a friend, a relative, a spouse, or even to yourself