Question

lemon tree leaf issue   I live in Portland, Oregon.  I have a small (2.5') potted Meyer Lemon tree that I received a couple of years ago.  The first year it got spider mites badly and nearly died before I figured out what was wrong and took care of it.  It was left with one single new wood stem and a couple of leaves, and was reduced to about 8" height.

About eight weeks ago, one or two leaves began to dry and curl at the very ends.  Now more leaves are doing the same thing.   There are also a couple of leaves that have small round dry spots on them. I have attached two photos.

The little tree had blossoms when my husband bought it for me, but has not bloomed since, and has never set fruit.

It is kept indoors in a window, and with a full-spectrum light on a timer for 10 hours per day, most of the year.  Once the weather gets warm, usually about May-September, I keep it outside on a sunny patio.  I haven't done anything with regard to feeding or fertilizing, because of lack of knowledge.

Answer
Good morning, Lisa.

I think that the problem with your Meyer lemon is due to a fertility problem.  It also may be related to your water.

I am not sure how you water your plant, but much of our drinking water has a lot of salts in it which are called soluble salts.  The best way to water plants is to take them to the sink or shower and water them until water runs through and out the bottom of the container.  This allows the soil to be thoroughly watered, throughout the container and helps remove salts from building up.  If you are just watering with a can and not leaching out the salts, they could build up and cause the tip browning.  Only water when the soil feels dry when you stick your finger in about 1/2-3/4 inch.  

Another good possibility for your problem is low fertility.  Citrus plants are heavy nitrogen feeders and they also like a slighly acidic pH.  I would recommend that you purchase a fertilizer specifically for citrus.  Many of these products are available and you may be able to find them at your local garden center.  If not, you can certainly purchase them online.  I did an internet search for "citrus fertilizer" and found many different options.  Most of the fertilizers for citrus are also recommended for avocado.  Once you have the product, follow the label directions to determine how often and how much.  It will likely be based on the size of your plant or container.  

I suspect that in a few weeks, you will see improvement.

Good luck!
--Jen