Lemon Cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa 'Goldcrest') is a beautiful evergreen with a citrus-like fragrance, and it's quite popular for both indoor and outdoor landscaping. When grown indoors, it requires some specific care to thrive. Here's a guide to help you take care of your indoor Lemon Cypress:

Light Requirements

• Bright, Indirect Light: Lemon Cypress prefers a lot of light but not direct, scorching sun. Ideally, place it near a south or west-facing window where it can get plenty of indirect sunlight throughout the day.
• Rotate the Plant: To ensure even growth, rotate your plant every couple of weeks to avoid it growing unevenly toward the light

• Cool to Moderate Temperature: This tree does best in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid placing it in areas with drafts, such as near heaters, air conditioners, or windows that may get too cold at night.
• Avoid Heat: Lemon Cypress can suffer in very hot, dry conditions, so avoid placing it in areas with high heat, such as near a fireplace or radiator.

Watering

• Consistent Moisture: Lemon Cypress likes its soil to be kept slightly moist but not soggy. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Make sure the pot has proper drainage so excess water can escape.
• Avoid Overwatering: Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's crucial not to let the plant sit in water. Ensure that the soil is well-draining.

Humidity

• Moderate to High Humidity: Lemon Cypress prefers moderate to high humidity. If your home is very dry, especially during the winter months, consider placing a humidifier nearby or occasionally misting the leaves with water.
• Humidity Tray: Another option is to place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water, ensuring the pot itself doesn't sit in water, but the surrounding air is more humid.

Soil

• Well-Draining Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a mix designed for cacti or succulents. You can also add perlite or sand to a standard potting mix to improve drainage.

Fertilizing

• Light Fertilization: During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. In the fall and winter, the plant's growth slows, so you can reduce or stop fertilizing.

Pruning

• Regular Pruning: Lemon Cypress can be pruned to maintain a compact shape. Trim back any dead or overgrown branches with clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Regular trimming also encourages denser foliage and helps the plant maintain a tidy appearance.
• Avoid Over-Pruning: Don't prune too heavily, as cutting too much of the foliage may stress the plant. Just trim back as needed to maintain its shape.

• Watch for Pests: Indoor Lemon Cypress plants can occasionally attract pests like spider mites, aphids, or scale. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation (like yellowing leaves or sticky residue).
• Treatment: If you spot pests, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, making sure to follow the instructions on the label.

Repotting

• Repot When Needed: Lemon Cypress doesn't need frequent repotting. Consider repotting every 1-2 years, or when the plant outgrows its pot. When repotting, choose a pot that’s slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has drainage holes.

Common Issues

• Yellowing Leaves: This can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or insufficient light. Ensure the plant is getting enough light and that the soil is not staying too wet.
• Leaf Drop: This can happen when the plant is stressed due to sudden changes in temperature or humidity levels. Try to keep the plant in a stable environment.

With the right conditions, your indoor Lemon Cypress can thrive and remain a lovely, fragrant addition to your home for many years. Just remember that while it's a relatively low-maintenance plant, it does require some attention to detail, especially in terms of light and moisture.