Growing a lemon tree from seed may seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance, anyone can do it successfully.
Purchasing lemon trees from nurseries can be expensive, and sometimes the varieties available may not suit your preferences or climate.
Fortunately, there are proven methods for germinating lemon seeds and nurturing them into healthy, fruit-bearing trees right in your own backyard.
Today, I’ll provide you with step-by-step instructions and expert tips on how to grow a lemon tree from seed, so you can enjoy the satisfaction of cultivating your own citrus oasis.
Gathering Lemon Seeds and Preparing for Germination
Growing a lemon tree from seed allows you to cultivate a unique variety adapted to your local climate. The first step is gathering seeds from fresh lemons.
Extracting Seeds from Fresh Lemons
Many supermarket lemons are treated to prevent germination, so aim to use organically grown lemons if possible. Halve the lemon and scrape the seeds and pulp onto a small plate with a spoon.
Storing Seeds Until Planting
Place the seeds on a paper towel to dry for 2-3 days, then transfer to an airtight container. Seeds can be stored in a cool, dry place for 6 months. Clearly label containers with the variety and date.
Pre-Germination Preparation: Scarification and Stratification
Some lemon seeds benefit from scarification, which involves abrasion to weaken the seed coat. Gently rub each seed between two sheets of fine-grit sandpaper. Then stratify by storing seeds in the fridge for 60 days to mimic winter conditions.
This helps simulate the seeds passing through an animal’s digestive tract in nature. Both steps enhance germination rates.
Starting to Grow a Lemon Tree From Seed Indoors
Now the seeds are prepped, it’s time to get them germinating indoors where conditions can be controlled.
Choosing a Pot and Seed Starting Mix
For germinating lemon seeds indoors, use 4-inch starter pots and a sterile seed starting mix to prevent damping off disease. The mix should retain moisture well.
Planting Lemon Seeds and Maintaining Soil Moisture
Place the prepared seeds, 1/4 inch deep, in the potting mix. Keep the soil continuously moist by covering with plastic wrap and checking daily until sprouts emerge in 2-4 weeks.
Providing the Right Growing Conditions for Germination
Place pots in a warm spot with indirect sunlight, around 75–80°F. direct sun could dry the soil too quickly. A seedling heat mat under pots also increases heat and speeds germination.
Signs that Lemon Seeds Have Germinated
Check soil regularly for signs of sprouts. Tiny, paired seed leaves indicate germination. Remove plastic wrap once most seeds have sprouted and begun growing their first true leaves.
Transplanting Lemon Tree Seedlings Outdoors
Now that the lemon seedlings have emerged indoors, they will soon be ready for their forever home in the garden or a large container.
Hardening Off Seedlings Before Transplanting Outdoors
A week before moving outside, start acclimating seedlings to outdoor conditions with a hardening-off period. Place pots in filtered sun for hours daily, increasing time and sun exposure over a week.
Choosing a Spot for Your Lemon Tree with Full Sun
Lemon trees need at least 6 hours of direct, unfiltered sun per day. Select a spot with full afternoon sun and good drainage. Amending clay soil with compost or raising the bed helps.
Planting Seedlings in the Ground or Larger Pots
When nighttime lows are safely above 50°F, transplant outdoors. Dig holes twice as wide as the starter pot and touch deeper. Gently remove seedlings and transplant within the holes. Refill soil and water well.
Caring for Young Lemon Trees After Transplanting
Keep newly transplanted trees well-watered, about 1 inch per week. Apply a thin layer of mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds. Consider running drip irrigation as trees grow larger. Fertilize monthly in spring and summer with citrus food.
Growing Conditions for Lemon Trees
With proper care and conditions, homegrown lemon trees can thrive for decades and provide abundant harvests. Here are some ongoing cultural practices.
Watering Needs for Lemon Trees
Mature trees need consistent moisture, especially when fruiting. Water deeply once the soil is slightly dry, to a depth of 6–12 inches. Cut back water in winter when trees are dormant.
Fertilizing Lemon Trees for Optimal Growth and Fruit Production
Apply a balanced citrus tree fertilizer in spring and summer according to label directions. Fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season to boost growth and harvest yields.
Common Pests and Diseases to Watch Out For
Keep an eye out for common citrus pests like aphids, scale, and mealybugs. Treat with insecticidal soap if spotted. Also, fungi like anthracnose can cause leaf drop. Prune away diseased parts and use preventative fungicide in wet weather.
For more detail you can check next article on Lemon Tree Pests and Diseases Identification and Treatment
Pruning Lemon Trees for Shape and Increased Productivity
Prune trees when they are dormant in late winter. Thin out overcrowded branches to allow ample sun and air circulation. Cut back vigorous growth to maintain a small tree size of 5–6 feet tall. This focuses energy into fruiting.
Caring for a Mature Lemon Tree
With patience and care, seed-grown lemon trees can live 20–30 years and produce hundreds of lemons annually at maturity.
Understanding the Lemon Tree Life Cycle and Growth Stages
It takes 3-5 years for trees to reach flowering age and 6–8 years to peak fruit production. Expect an average 10-pound annual yield from a mature home tree.
You need to read: The Ultimate Guide to Lemon Tree Growth Stage and Care
Symptoms that Indicate Your Tree is Ready to Bear Fruit
Look for clusters of white flowers in spring, followed by small green lemons that ripen to bright yellow by late summer or fall. Well-tended trees will bloom and fruit year after year.
Harvesting Fresh Lemons from Your Homegrown Tree
Pick lemons when they are bright yellow and slightly soft. Twist and gently pull from branches. Enjoy freshly squeezed lemonade or preserve extras by juicing, zesting, or canning lemons for later.
FAQs About Growing Lemon Tree From Seed
How long until my lemon tree bears fruit?
Lemon trees started from seed typically take 3-5 years to reach flowering and fruiting maturity once transplanted outdoors as seedlings. Young trees may produce a small harvest sooner.
How big do lemon trees get and how long do they live?
Homegrown Meyer lemon trees reach 5–10 feet tall and wide at maturity, while other varieties can grow up to 20 feet. With optimum care, seed-grown lemon trees can be productive for 20–30 years.
Do lemon trees need full sun or can they tolerate partial shade?
Lemon trees perform best with at least 6 hours of direct, unfiltered sun per day for maximum growth, flowering, and fruiting. While they can tolerate very light shade as a young tree, full sun is strongly recommended for fruit production.
How do I know if my lemon tree is getting enough water?
The soil around a lemon tree should be kept consistently moist but not soggy. Check the soil moisture 1-2 inches below the surface. Signs of water need include wilting, leaf drop, or fruit that doesn’t develop properly.
What do I do if my lemon tree gets sick?
Monitor the tree for signs of disease, like spots, mold, or pests. Isolate diseased trees and prune away damaged parts. Treat with a fungicide or insecticide as directed on the product. Consider getting a diagnosis from an arborist if issues persist.
Conclusion
Growing a lemon tree from seed is a rewarding process that results in a uniquely flavored, homegrown fruit harvest for many years to come.
By following the basics of stratifying, germinating, transplanting, and caring for a young lemon tree, it will become established in its new home.
Maintaining optimum fertilizer, water, sunlight, and pest control keeps trees healthy for decades of production.
Homegrown Meyer lemons or other varieties you’ve grown from seed will be sweeter and more fragrant than shop-bought lemons due to their localized genetics.
For those new to gardening or looking for an evergreen perennial harvest that offers beauty, shade, and food, starting a lemon tree from seed is a rewarding journey.
With patience and care, your little seed will mature into a verdant, fruiting tree that reminds you each summer where lemons truly come from—and the satisfaction of growing something with your own hands.