How to ensure fruit trees are more productive?

[Pcan]

I have a lemon and Nectarine tree in my backyard. I am told it is nectarine, though I am not sure. 

Nectarine??LemonPalmsSoil Lemon treeNectarine?Soil NectarineDressinaPotted (Croton?)Potted (Croton?)Peace LilyPalms

1. Lemon Tree: It can be more productive, is there something I can add to the soil or spray to improve its yield?

2. The Nectarine tree. What is it exactly? Is there some nourishment I can give it? It looks ripe, but hard inside.

3. How do I preserve these potted plants which are indoor ones, now exposed to the sun! I have kept them in as shady a place. 

I water them at least once a day, should I water them twice? I am waiting for cloudy rainy weather that Melbourne promises.
4. There is a rose bush that needs some TLC, pic not included.
Too many ants!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks

[JacobZ]

Hi @Pcan,

Thank you for your questions about the variety of lovely plants at your home.

To improve the productivity of your lemon tree, apply a citrus-specific fertilizer high in nitrogen, such as Scotts Citrus and Fruit Controlled Release Fertiliser. Fertilize every couple of months during the growing season (spring and summer), and supplement this with organic mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Ensure the mulch is kept a few centimetres away from the trunk to prevent rot. Regular watering is crucial, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially in dry spells. Prune the tree to remove dead or overcrowded branches, allowing better airflow and light penetration.

For your nectarine tree, its identity can be confirmed by examining its fruit and leaves. Nectarines have smooth, fuzz-free skin, unlike peaches, which are fuzzy. The leaves are long, glossy, and narrow, resembling peach leaves. If the fruit is ripe on the outside but hard inside, it may need more time to ripen on the tree, as nectarines typically soften when fully mature. To nourish the tree for the next growing season, apply the same fertiliser I've recommended for your lemon tree, in early spring and again after harvest. Adding compost or manure around the base can also enrich the soil and support healthy fruit development.

If your indoor plants are now exposed to direct sunlight, it’s essential to provide them with some protection. Place them in a location with dappled shade or cover them with sheer fabric to reduce the intensity of the sunlight. 

Overwatering is just as bad if not worse than underwatering, as daily watering can lead to root rot. Instead, water deeply around once a week and check the soil moisture before watering again only when the top inch feels dry. 

For guidance with your roses, have a look at How To Grow, Prune and Propagate A Rose and How To Maintain Healthy Roses.

You can also have a look at How To Grow And Care For a Lemon Tree, How to Grow and Prune a Nectarine Tree and How To Grow Your Own Fruit And Veg for some further guidance.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob