Lemon trees are wonderfully suited for indoor growth, requiring only a sunny windowsill, suitable soil, and a dash of patience. While it may take a few years for an indoor lemon tree to bloom and bear fruit, the glossy leaves and rapid growth make it a captivating addition. To guide you through the process of growing a lemon tree from seeds, let’s explore the essential steps.
Items Needed:
- One or two lemons (preferably organic)
- Small plastic zip bag and paper towel
- Sterile citrus soil or a mix of peat, perlite, vermiculite, and organic fertilizer
- 10 cm pots (terracotta or plastic)
Additionally, you’ll require a warm, shaded place for germination and a sunny location once the lemon trees sprout.
Germinate Seeds in Paper Towels:
- Gather the Seeds:
- Collect seeds from a juicy, organic lemon.
- Use a minimum of 5 seeds, considering not all may germinate.
- Rinse and dry the seeds.
- Remove White Skin (Optional):
- Optionally, peel the white skin to expedite germination without harming the sprout.
- Wrap in Damp Paper Towel:
- Place seeds on a paper towel, spray until damp, and cover with another layer.
- Seal in a plastic bag, noting the date.
- Place in a Warm, Shaded Area:
- Keep the bag in a warm, shaded place, away from drafts.
- Wait for Germination:
- After 2 to 4 weeks or when roots are 3 to 5 cm long, seeds are ready.
Prepare Soil and Pots:
- Prepare the Soil:
- Pots should be at least 7 cm in diameter and 10 cm in height.
- Use citrus potting mix or create a blend of peat, perlite, vermiculite, and organic fertilizer.
- Separate Seedlings:
- Carefully separate seedlings from the paper towel.
- Plant Seedlings:
- Plant seedlings about 3 cm deep, considering root length.
- Keep Soil Moist:
- Keep the soil moist until 4 to 5 leaves appear on each plant.
- Gradually move plants to a sunny window, ensuring they don’t dry out.
- Adjust Watering:
- Let the top 2 cm of soil dry out between waterings, maintaining overall soil moisture.
- Transplanting:
- After 3 years, when the lemon tree is robust, transplant it into your garden.
- Protect it from frost in cold regions.
Time to Fruit Production:
- Expect to wait about three years after planting for the lemon tree to produce pickable, edible fruit.
- Lemon trees grown from seeds typically take three to six years to become capable of bearing fruit.
- Consistent and careful care is crucial for their development.
Embrace the journey of growing a lemon tree from seed, and savor the eventual rewards of homegrown lemons!
