The quality of a lemon isn't solely determined by its size. While large lemons are excellent for zesting due to their ample rind and thick skin, making zest removal easier (as noted in one reference), their overall goodness depends on several factors.
Size and Quality: A Complex Relationship
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Zesting: Large lemons are undeniably superior for zesting because of their larger surface area of rind. The thicker skin also simplifies the process of removing only the flavorful yellow outer layer, avoiding the bitter white pith.
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Juice and Flavor: Size doesn't guarantee superior juice or flavor. Oversized lemons, sometimes resulting from rootstock or environmental factors (as highlighted in several Reddit discussions), may have thick skins and less desirable taste. Commercial growers often deem oversized fruit unsuitable for sale, using them for juice instead.
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Variety Matters: The type of lemon tree significantly impacts fruit size and quality. Some varieties naturally produce larger lemons than others. For example, cedros, a citron subgroup, are known for being significantly larger than standard lemons.
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Rootstock Influence: The rootstock of a lemon tree can influence the size and characteristics of the fruit. Certain rootstocks, like the Toyer Citrange, can lead to larger lemons. These may not always have the same flavor profile as those from other rootstocks.
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Growing Conditions: Environmental factors, such as soil quality, water availability, and sunlight exposure, influence the size and quality of lemons. Even a healthy lemon tree might produce larger-than-average fruit under ideal conditions.
Conclusion: It Depends
Therefore, "good" is subjective and depends on the intended use. Big lemons excel in zesting; however, their juice and overall flavor may not always be superior to smaller lemons. Ultimately, the quality of a lemon is a combination of size, variety, growing conditions and personal preference.
