Hi, I have a very robust and heavy bearer lemon tree. This year the fruit is going mouldy on the tree. What would be the cause?

Hi Ann

It sounds like Brown rot, which is caused by the wet weather conditions. Wet weather at the time of flowering helps spread the fungus. It is too late now to do anything, other than picking off infected fruit, collecting up fallen fruit and disposing of these in the rubbish. Rake up leaves and burn or throw in the rubbish to stop the disease spreading and overwintering in the soil. Spray with a suitable fungicide in late winter and early spring before and during bud burst. Also make sure the tree is pruned with an open canopy to improve air circulation and reduce conditions fungi love to multiply in.

Thanks, Tui Team