Growing plants from lemon seeds is not only possible but also a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it:
Growing Plants from Lemon Seeds:
- Begin by selecting a fresh lemon from which you want to extract the seeds.
- Carefully cut the lemon into two halves without damaging the seeds concentrated in the middle. Cut a quarter of the lemon to avoid affecting the seeds.
- Squeeze the two lemon halves over a bowl to release the juice and seeds. Once the larger part is juice-free, cut it open, removing any seeds attached to the pulp.
- Use a sieve to separate the seeds from the juice, placing the seeds on absorbent kitchen paper. Allow the seeds to air dry thoroughly until firm.
Germination Process:
- For faster germination, delicately remove the filmy layer covering each seed using tweezers. This film acts as a shell that can hinder growth.
- Prepare a glass of water, a sheet of absorbent paper, and some aluminum foil.
- Dampen the absorbent paper by dipping it into the water and wringing it out to ensure it is moist but not soaked.
- Spread the seeds evenly on one half of the moist paper, fold the napkin over the seeds, and then fold it over itself again.
- Create a germination chamber by folding aluminum foil over the paper towel.
- Leave the seeds in a dry and warm place at home for 2 to 3 weeks, allowing them to germinate.
- After three weeks, open the package to find sprouted lemon seeds.
Planting the Sprouted Seeds:
- Prepare a pot with universal substrate and wet the soil well until water drains out of the pot’s drainage holes.
- Use a toothpick to create holes in the soil, placing the sprouted seeds inside and burying them carefully, ensuring the roots are well-placed at the bottom.
- Cover the seeds thoroughly.
- Keep the pot indoors until the leaves start to grow. Place it in a bright location near a window but not in direct sunlight to prevent burning.
- In about a month, you’ll have small lemon plants, and you can decide whether to transplant them into separate pots or let them grow together.