Did you know that you can cultivate fruits and vegetables at home using the seeds from the fruits you eat? While it may seem challenging, it requires minimal effort and a lot of patience to see the first signs of success. The crucial step is to ensure the seed is free from any pulp, which could lead to mold. Let’s explore how to achieve this.
Living in the city without a garden doesn’t mean you have to give up on the idea of being surrounded by nature and growing your fruit plants. Surprisingly, certain species can be grown at home by planting seeds or pits in a pot on your balcony or terrace.
Here are some fruit trees that you can successfully grow at home:
1. Apple Tree
- Apple trees, especially dwarf varieties, are easy to keep at home. Proper care, including changing the pot annually and more frequent watering in hot periods, can result in years of fruit-bearing.
2. Pear Tree
- Dwarf pear tree varieties are suitable for home cultivation. Use a deep and wide pot, fill it with warm, nutrient-rich soil, and place it in a sunny location for optimal growth.
3. Fig Tree
- Ideal for balcony cultivation, the fig tree thrives in sunny and warm conditions. Protect it from low temperatures, especially during winter, and ensure the potting soil is fertile and not overly moist.
4. Peach Tree
- Suitable for mild climate areas, peach trees require heat but not direct sun. Prevent exposure to excessively low temperatures, and choose fertile soil. Regular pruning is essential for maintenance.
5. Lemon Tree
- Plant lemons in a pot of the right size to allow root expansion. Use porous, fertile, and well-drained soil. Lemon trees tolerate temperatures not lower than 15 degrees and should be sheltered during winter.
6. Strawberry Tree
- While strawberries demand patience, they can be grown on the balcony or terrace. Move the plant frequently to balance sun and shade exposure. Ensure the soil is acidic, and avoid direct contact with high temperatures.
7. Pomegranate Tree
- Pomegranates, known for their vibrant color and sweetness, require well-soaked soil and exposure to sunlight. Protect the plant from excessively cold temperatures, and new shoots will emerge after about 20 days.
8. Mango Tree
- Growing a mango at home involves removing the seed’s skin, wrapping it in moist absorbent paper, and placing it in a sealed container for about three weeks. After this period, new roots will emerge.
9. Avocado Tree
- Avocados can be grown using a plastic bottle or toothpicks. Ensure the seed is immersed in water, facing downwards, and add water as needed. If using toothpicks, fix them to a plastic cup with the lower part of the seed immersed in water.
10. Cherry Tree – Cherries add beauty to your garden or balcony with fragrant flowers and delicious fruits. Tolerating low temperatures, cherries should be shielded from excessive heat, and you must prevent water stagnation in the saucer.
11. Pineapple – Pineapples can thrive in mild climates. Keep the soil consistently moist and fertilized, watering the plant at least once a week and adding new fertilizer every two weeks.
12. Mandarin Tree – Ideal for spacious balconies or terraces, mandarin trees require a large pot with well-drained soil. Ensure adequate exposure to light while keeping the soil consistently moist.
13. Medlar Tree – Choose a dwarf variety for balcony cultivation, avoiding exposure to severe cold temperatures. Protect it from harsh weather conditions.
14. Apricot Tree – Apricots demand special care, including a mild climate, protection from wind and severe frost, and warm, light, and fertile soil.
15. Raspberry Bush – Ideal for warm climates, raspberries should be covered in low temperatures. Keep the soil fertile and well-watered, especially during hot weather.
By following these guidelines, you can create a mini orchard at home, enjoying the fruits of your labor.