Growing a lemon tree from seed is one of the most rewarding and satisfying accomplishments a gardener can experience. Starting a lemon tree from seed can be a bit daunting at first, but with the right information and advice, anyone can do it. YouTube is a great source for learning how to start lemon tree from seed. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to grow a lemon tree from seed on YouTube.
First off, look at the various tutorials available on YouTube. There are various channels that specialize in gardening and provide information on how to grow a lemon tree from seed. Take your time to watch the videos and read the description of each video.
Once you have found a tutorial that you like, take some notes and watch the video more than once. It is important to understand the materials and equipment needed before you get started. Make sure that you have every step written down so that you can easily follow along when it comes time to actually planting the seed.
When planting the seed, make sure that it is placed in damp soil and placed in a warm spot. Place the seed about an inch below the surface of the soil and cover lightly with the soil. Then, give it a good watering and place it in an area that receives plenty of sunlight.
Next, make sure that the soil is kept moist. Water your lemon tree seed every day to stimulate initial growth. A spray bottle can be a great tool for this step. Additionally, be sure to give it plenty of direct sunlight as this will help the seedling grow faster and healthier.
Once the seedling starts to sprout, you can start fertilizing it with any good citrus-based fertilizers. Since lemon trees are slow-growing, they will not require a lot of fertilizer, but use it sparingly. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package.
Finally, it is time to transfer the plant to a larger pot. Make sure that the pot you pick is about twice the size of the seedling and fill it with fresh potting soil. Do not forget to water your lemon tree regularly and keep it in the direct sunlight for about 8 hours a day.
Learn Pruning Techniques
When your lemon tree starts to mature, it is time to start pruning. Pruning not only helps to shape and form the tree, but it can help promote healthy growth as well. When you are starting out, it is best to watch some pruning tutorials on YouTube to get an understanding of what techniques should be used. Be sure to use sharp pruning shears, which will help avoid damaging the branches and leaves.
When pruning, make sure to remove any dead or diseased branches as well as any shoots that grow out of bounds. The main branches should start at about 6 inches from the trunk, with the smaller branches branching out from there. Make sure not to prune any of the main branches by more than a few inches, as it can stunt the citrus tree’s growth.
When the tree starts to bloom and bear fruit, it is important to thin the fruit load. This is especially important if the tree is overloaded with fruit, as this can stress the tree and lead to productivity loss. Citrus trees tend to produce more fruits regardless of the number, so it is best to get rid of some of the smaller fruits in order to give the remaining fruits enough room to grow.
Finally, prune off any flowering buds and immature fruits in order to help the tree focus its energy on producing the best quality of fruits. Make sure to dispose of the pruned branches far away from the plant in order to prevent any potential infections.
Mulching and Fertilizing Requirements
Mulching is an important step when it comes to growing lemon trees from seed. Mulch helps keep the soil moist and prevent any weed growth. Make sure to use mulch that is organic and has a high nitrogen content, like compost or shredded leaves. Spread the mulch in a thick layer around the base of the tree and water it.
Fertilizing the lemon tree is another important step. Citrus trees require an acidic soil and therefore, only need a specific type of fertilizer. Look for fertilizers that contain nitrogen and potassium and use them sparingly, as the tree can be damaged if too much fertilizer is used. You can also mix a few tablespoons of Epsom salts with the water when watering, which will help to give the tree an added boost.
Make sure to fertilize the lemon tree once or twice a year, depending on its growth cycle. Again, make sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package, as too much fertilizer can be harmful to the tree.
Finally, you can use organic insecticides such as neem oil or insecticidal soaps in order to get rid of any potential pests. Make sure to use a product that is designed for citrus trees and avoid using products with harsh chemicals, which can damage the leaves.
Protecting the Tree from Cold
Many areas experience cold temperatures during some periods of the year, which can cause serious damage to the lemon tree. To prevent this, you can use a few different methods. Firstly, keep the tree in an area that is sheltered from the cold. Additionally, you can use Horticultural fleece to wrap around the tree in order to create a barrier between the tree and the cold air.
You can also use citricast, a specially formulated wax, to help protect the tree bark from the cold. This product should be used after the tree reaches two or three years old, as young trees will not benefit from this protection. Apply the product when the temperature starts to drop, as this will help the tree retain its moisture.
If the temperature drops too much for the tree to handle, you can bring it indoors for a few days in order to shelter it from the cold. Make sure that the room is warm and has plenty of sunlight, as you will want to maintain the tree’s growing environment.
Common Problems and Solutions
When growing a lemon tree from seed, there can be many different problems, but most can be easily solved with the right information. Make sure to check the tree daily for signs of any potential diseases or pests. Common problems include aphids, spider mites, and scale, which can be treated with an insecticide.
Other common problems include fungus or mould growth, which can be treated with a fungicide. If you notice any yellowing or wilting of the leaves, it could be a sign of overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Try to reduce the amount of water and apply some fertilizer if necessary.
Additionally, lemon trees are prone to root rot, so it is important to keep an eye on the soil. If it is too moist or wet, it could be a sign that the roots are rotting, in which case the soil should be changed and drainage should be improved.
Finally, pests such as birds and squirrels can also be a problem. To deter them, cover the tree with a mesh and use bird spikes to prevent them from sitting on the branches. Additionally, you can use pepper or garlic spray around the tree to stop them from eating the fruits.
