Insects like lemons as much as we do and sap-sucking insects can cause enough damage that the leaves develop yellow spots that eventually form large yellow patches.

Aphids, whiteflies, mites, scale and mealybugs can all be culprits. Check the undersides of the leaves and stems for the pests and treat accordingly.

Lemon leaves that are yellow all over is usually a result of over-watering, more common in colder weather and in potted lemon trees. Leaves that are green but curl up and then drop is usually due to too little water.

Lemons are heavy feeders with roots close to the surface, so are prone to nutrient deficiencies, notably nitrogen, iron and magnesium.

Nitrogen deficiencies show as a general yellowing of the leaves, stunting and leaf drop.

Magnesium deficiency shows up more on older leaves with patchy yellowing between the veins with a green wedge shape at the base of the leaf. Add half a teaspoon of Epsom salts to half a litre of water, stir and water it on plants.

If it's Iron deficiency the new leaves will be yellow with darker green veins and when it's severe the whole leaf can become pale yellow or almost white. Mix 2 teaspoons of iron chelates with 4 and a half litres of water and apply around the tree's root zone.

The pH of the soil can affect the availability of nutrients, especially iron. If your soil is too alkaline, with a pH above 7, apply agricultural sulphur.

All citrus benefit from regular feeds of a dissolvable citrus fertiliser about every two months; less so in winter, but especially now at flowering time.

Lemons don't really like the cold, so if yours has been dropping leaves and is in an exposed position, and you have eliminated the above possibilities, the solution may be as simple as feeding, mulching and waiting for warmer weather.

Ensure you water your vegies regularly to keep them growing strongly

Continue to plant broad beans, celery, peas, radish, rocket, Bok Choi or Pak Choy, lettuce, spring onion and radish.

Keep checking the brassicas for caterpillars.

COVID thought for the week - when life gives you lemons, make lemonade!