Growing a lemon tree in a cup is a really doable and fun activity. All you need is a lemon, a cup, and water. Let’s get started! Firstly, take a lemon and carefully scoop out the flesh from within it. Make sure to throw away the center white pulp, and keep the flesh and seeds. Secondly, rinse the flesh and the seeds with cold water and then put them into the cup. Thirdly, fill the cup with enough water so that the bottom of the lemon flesh is completely submerged. Fourthly, wait for a week and then check the cup to see if the seeds have sprouted. Fifthly, if you can already see a few sprouts, then dispose of some of the lemon flesh to make more room for new sprouts. sixthly, keep the cup in a cool, moist place and make sure to keep the water level suitable for the sprouts. Lastly, when the lemon tree has grown to a height of 5 inches, transplant it in a pot of soil.
Choosing the Cup
When it comes to choosing a cup to plant your lemon tree, make sure to select a cup that is wide and shallow. A wide shallow cup helps in better oxygenation of the soil, as well as provides enough room for the roots of the lemon tree to reach out and get oxygen. Also, select a cup with a large opening; this will make it easy to reach in and water the tree.
Watering the Plant
Watering is one of the most important aspects of growing a lemon tree in a cup. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while under-watering can stunt the growth of the tree. Hence, regular monitoring of the amount of water in the cup is crucial. To water the tree, slowly fill the cup with water until it reaches the bottom of the lemon flesh. If the lemon flesh is submerged in water for too long, it will rot away, so make sure to check the cup regularly.
Fertilizing the Plant
Fertilizing the lemon tree is also important if you want it to grow healthy and strong. Aim to fertilize the tree every two weeks, using a citrus-specific fertilizer with high levels of potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium. This will help the tree to grow better and faster.
Pruning the Plant
Pruning is another important step to growing a lemon tree in a cup. Prune away any leaves or branches that are damaged or diseased, to allow the healthy parts of the tree to thrive. This will also help you to maintain the size of your lemon tree.
Harvesting the Lemons
Once your lemon tree is fully grown, you can start harvesting lemons! As the lemons ripen, the skin will turn yellow. Harvest the lemons as they are ripe and enjoy the sweet, juicy lemons!
Transplanting the Tree
Finally, if your lemon tree continues to grow and no longer fits in the cup, it is time to transplant. Fill up a pot with good quality potting soil, and carefully transfer the tree into it. Water the tree regularly, and provide it with proper care to help it grow even bigger and stronger.
