1. Choose and Prepare the Seeds
Select Fresh Seeds: Remove seeds from an organic lemon, as non-organic seeds may not sprout due to chemical treatments.
Clean the Seeds: Rinse the seeds thoroughly to remove any pulp, as residue can encourage mold growth.
Pre-Soak Seeds: Soak the seeds in warm water for 1–2 hours to speed up germination.
2. Prepare the Pot and Soil
Choose a Pot: Start with a small pot (4–6 inches) with good drainage.
Add Soil: Fill the pot with well-draining potting soil. A citrus mix or a mix of regular potting soil with sand works best.
3. Plant the Seeds
Position the Seeds: Plant the seeds about ½ inch deep in the soil. You can plant multiple seeds in one pot, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Cover Gently: Lightly cover the seeds with soil and pat it down gently.
4. Water and Cover
Water Thoroughly: Moisten the soil, but don’t make it soggy.
Create a Mini Greenhouse: Cover the pot with plastic wrap or a clear plastic bag to retain moisture and warmth, which helps germination. Make sure the wrap does not touch the soil.
Place in a Warm Spot: Put the pot in a warm, sunny location. An ideal temperature is between 70–80°F (21–27°C).
5. Wait for Germination
Be Patient: Germination can take 1–3 weeks, so check the pot regularly for sprouts.
Remove Cover: Once seedlings emerge, remove the plastic wrap and place the pot in a bright, sunny spot.
6. Care for Your Lemon Seedlings
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Sunlight: Lemon trees need 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If indoors, place the pot near a sunny window or use a grow light.
Fertilizing: After the seedlings grow 4–6 inches tall, start feeding them with a citrus fertilizer every 4–6 weeks.
7. Transplant to a Larger Pot
Title: « How to Plant Lemons in Pots Starting from Seed: A Step-by-Step Guide »
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