Question
We have a Meyer Lemon dwarf tree which we've had for just under one year. It's planted in a pot on our patio. We live on the west coast and in January there was a frost while we were away. Since that time the tree has been having problems. Right now the majority of the leaves are yellow and curling. I have just spotted some new leaf growth, so at least that is encouraging. There is another real problem with brown oval shaped raised spots on the branches. We went ahead and cut one of the branches completely off since it was completely covered...it seems like it might be some kind of fungus, because now it is spreading to other branches. Please let me know if you know what the problems might be and how we should address them. Thanks!

Answer
Jenny,

Meyers lemons, like all other citrus trees, will be damaged by frosts (that is why orange juice has gone up). The fact that you see new growth is a great sign.

The raised bumps on the branches are a type of insect called scale. These pests can destroy the tree if not controled. I would recommend applying a horticultural oil to the tree to suffocate the scale and fertilizing it to help encourage recovery from the frost damage.

Good luck,
Ed Gulliksen