How to Plant Lemon Tree from Seeds

If you're a citrus lover or just love growing plants, planting a lemon tree can be a fun and fruitful experience! However, planting lemon trees from seeds can take some patience and time, but it is definitely worth the wait. Here's a detailed guide on how to plant lemon trees from seeds:

Step 1: Collecting the Seeds

The first step is to collect the seeds from a fresh lemon that has been recently harvested. Choose a healthy and organic lemon, cut it open and remove the seeds. Rinse them gently in water to remove any pulp or fruit residue. Be mindful that lemon seeds can be dry and slippery, so be careful not to lose them.

Step 2: Preparing the Seeds for Planting

Once you have collected the seeds, prepare them for planting by putting them in a bowl of tepid water for a few hours. This will help soften the protective coating, making it easier for the seeds to germinate. After soaking them, remove any seeds that have floated to the surface as they may be infertile or damaged.

Step 3: Planting the Seeds

Fill a small pot or seed tray, a quarter to half full with potting soil. Sprinkle the seeds evenly over the soil, and lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil. Next, water the soil with a spray bottle or a gentle watering can. You must keep the soil moist, but not water logged. Cover the pot or tray with cling wrap or a plastic bag to create a humid environment, perfect for germination. Place the pot or tray in a warm, sunny location to encourage growth.

Step 4: Caring for Seedlings

With proper care and attention, the seedlings will start to sprout in 2-3 weeks. At this point, remove the cling wrap and move the pot to a sunny and well-ventilated area. Water the seedlings regularly, but don't allow the soil to become waterlogged. Watch out for pests and diseases, and take immediate action if any issues arise. Fertilizer is not necessary at this stage, but can be introduced later during the growing phase.

Step 5: Transplanting the Seedlings

After 3-4 months of growth, it's time to transplant the seedlings to a larger pot. Choose a pot that is at least 10-12 inches in diameter with good drainage. Fill the pot with potting soil, and gently remove the seedlings from their original pots. Plant each seedling in the center of the pot and add more soil to fill any gaps. Water the newly planted lemon trees and provide appropriate care for them. When it comes to watering and feeding, keep in mind that lemon trees prefer moist soil, but not soaked soil. Be sure to give the lemon trees at least 6-8 hours of sun daily.

Conclusion

Planting lemon trees from seeds is an exciting and rewarding experience. It requires patience, attention, and a bit of hard work, but it's worth it. Remember to collect seeds from a fresh, harvested lemon and soak them in water before planting. Water the seedlings regularly and keep an eye out for pests or diseases. Finally, after 3-4 months, transplant the seedlings to a larger pot and grow your very own lemon tree! Happy planting!