Every year, just as the craziness of the holidays begins to quiet down, our family has a tradition that we all look forward to! Harvesting lemons from our backyard tree. It’s usually around late December or early January when the lemons are ripe and ready, their bright yellow skins stand out against the green leaves, practically begging to be picked! The colors look unreal. So much so I have hard time putting down the camera. I take picture after picture just trying to capture the beauty of the tree, the lemons and the leaves.
Harvesting Our Lemon Tree
It’s become one of those slow, meaningful rituals we return to year after year. My husband and I, along with the kids, head out with baskets and clippers in hand. We usually plan the day especially now that the kids are older and everyone looks forward to it. I think we all understand that it’s not just about gathering fruit, it’s about making memories. There’s something special about being outside together, laughing as we try to reach the highest branches, working together to harvest and gather and filling our baskets to the brim. It’s an unexpected but perfect family bonding moment, and one I’m so glad we started when the kids were little. It’s so hard to put into words but it feels like God himself is right there with us and we are just in awe of the the abundance God visual shows us of the tree.
After the harvest, we bring the lemons inside and get to work. We almost always make fresh lemonade—it’s a favorite in our house. Our Lemon Vinaigrette, Watermelon Lemonade and Rosemary Lemonade recipes are tried and true, and the citrus press we use (linked here if you’re looking for a good one) makes the job easy and fun for everyone.
We’ll also squeeze and freeze lemon juice to use later in cooking or baking it’s so convenient to have on hand when you want a little burst of brightness in a recipe. Another part of the tradition is putting together small lemon-themed gift baskets or simple brown bags filled with lemons to share with friends and neighbors. It’s such a small gesture, but it brings a lot of joy and is always appreciated.
If you’re thinking about starting your own family citrus tradition, let this be your sign! Planting a lemon tree is easier than you think, especially if you live in a warmer climate. According to Kellogg Garden’s citrus tree guide, Zone 9 and above can plant citrus trees directly in the ground year-round.Plant one when your kids are small, and let it grow alongside your family. Then one day, you might find yourselves harvesting lemons together, year after year, and realizing that this little tree has become part of your family story too!
