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Can You Grow Lemon Tree in North Carolina?

US · USDA Zone 7b · zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a

Won't grow here

Lemon trees cannot survive your winters outdoors — but they thrive as container plants brought indoors.

Plant zones

9a–11b

North Carolina last frost

late February

North Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

Perennial

About Lemon Tree

Lemon trees are popular container plants and can be grown indoors or outdoors in warm climates.

In cold zones grow in containers and bring indoors before frost. Keep near a sunny window or under grow lights. Water when top 2cm of soil is dry. Feed with citrus fertiliser in spring and summer.

Full lemon tree growing guide →

Gardening in North Carolina

North Carolina spans the mountains (Zone 5b-6a), Piedmont (Zone 7a-7b), and coastal plain (Zone 8a). Long warm seasons support tobacco, sweet potatoes, and a wide range of vegetables.

See what grows well in North Carolina →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Lemon Tree in North Carolina?

Lemon trees cannot survive your winters outdoors — but they thrive as container plants brought indoors.

What zone is North Carolina?

North Carolina spans USDA Zone 7b (5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a).

When do you plant Lemon Trees in North Carolina?

See the planting guide for Lemon Tree — timing depends on your exact frost date.