How to grow a lemon tree from a seed at home: what you need to know

Real lemon trees grown in a pot are a sign of skill among those who enjoy indoor gardening. However, in reality, almost anyone can start a lemon tree. Even if it does not bear fruit, it is worth growing for the incredible aroma of the flowers.

OBOZREVATEL guides you step by step on how to do it and how to care for a lemon tree in a pot. It is quite simple.

How to germinate a lemon seed

To grow a plant, you can use a seed from a lemon purchased at the nearest store. Yes, there is a certain probability that it will not germinate, but in this case, you can try again; viable seeds are not uncommon in store-bought lemons.

Some indoor plant lovers suggest sacrificing a lemon seed before planting it in the soil. Yes, this may speed up the germination process, but it is not necessary. It will germinate on its own; it just takes a little longer.

The seed will thrive in ordinary universal soil. The main thing is to remember to water it and keep it in a well-lit place because lemons are very sun-loving plants. A southern windowsill is ideal.

You can also create a makeshift greenhouse to speed up germination. Simply cover the pot with plastic wrap and pierce it in several places.

How to care for a lemon tree

In addition to plenty of sunlight, the plant will also need ample watering. In summer and winter, when the humidity is low, it's also good to spray the plant.

The ideal temperature for a lemon tree is 23-25 degrees Celsius. The plant does not tolerate extreme heat or cold.

Conventional universal fertilizers are suitable for lemon trees. However, you can also purchase specific fertilizers designed for citrus fruits.

A lemon tree, under favorable conditions, grows very quickly, but it needs to be pruned. This procedure will only strengthen the plant, promoting the growth of more shoots and the formation of a denser crown.

Pests

The lemon tree can be a target for certain pests that commonly infest indoor plants. In particular, spider mites like to settle on it. Scale insects, mealybugs, and aphids are also attracted to lemons. Therefore, the plant should be regularly inspected and, if necessary, treated with insecticides - whether ready-made or homemade.

When to expect the harvest

Under good conditions, a lemon tree can bear fruit. It can start to bloom as early as the second year, but you will have to wait at least 3-5 years to see fruits. Lemons grown indoors are unlikely to have as rich a flavor as those grown in open fields, but they will still be enjoyable.

If you have a dark apartment where you can't grow lemons, OBOZREVATEL has provided information about indoor plants that will thrive even in low-light conditions.

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