Growing a meyer lemon tree from seed is an exciting prospect for gardeners or homeowners looking to add some citrus flavor to their space. While it may seem like a daunting task, with a few easy steps, anyone can easily learn how to start a meyer lemon tree from seed. Here’s what you need to know.
Firstly, you’ll need to acquire the seeds. Meyer lemons are hard to come by, but you can often find them online or in specialty stores. Once you have the seeds, soak them in room temperature water overnight.
Next, you’ll need to prepare the soil. A container filled with potting soil is a great option, though you may also want to add some perlite or sand to help with drainage. Be sure to moisten the soil before planting.
Then, you’ll want to plant the seeds. Plant 2 or 3 of them in each pot, about ¼ inch deep, and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Place the pots in an area that receives plenty of sunlight and cover with a thin layer of saran wrap to hold moisture.
Finally, you’ll need to water the seeds. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy, as the seedlings can easily rot if the soil is too wet. Once the seedlings sprout, remove the saran wrap and make sure they get plenty of sunlight throughout the day.
With a bit of patience and the right conditions, your meyer lemon tree will start to take shape. Here are a few more tips for how to care for your tree as it grows.
Watering
Once the seedlings sprout and the weather heats up, you’ll need to water your tree more regularly. Aim to water it every few days, but be sure to thoroughly moisten the soil. When the heat becomes too intense, increase the frequency of watering.
Keep an eye on your tree’s leaves. If they start to curl or yellow, it likely indicates they’re getting too much or too little water. If this is the case, adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
You can also check the soil around the base of the tree to check for moisture. If the top few inches of soil feel dry to the touch, you’ll know it’s time to water.
Fertilizing
You should also give your meyer lemon tree an occasional boost with some fertilizer. A slow-release fertilizer designed for citrus trees is a good option. Aim to fertilize your tree every 2-4 months.
Pay attention to the timing of your fertilizer applications. The best time to fertilize your tree is after watering, as the fertilizer can then be easily absorbed by the soil. Also, make sure to stop fertilizing in late summer, as the tree needs a break from fertilizing before the winter season arrives.
Pruning
As your meyer lemon tree grows, you’ll need to prune it. Pruning keeps the tree healthy and promotes new growth. But exercise caution when pruning, as lemon trees are prone to damage.
Aim to prune your meyer lemon tree at least once a year. Cut away any dead or damaged branches, as well as any that are interfering with other branches. To promote growth, you may also want to prune any branches that appear too leggy and overgrown.
Take care not to prune too much at once, as the tree may not be able to handle the stress.
Mulching
Mulch can also help improve the health of your meyer lemon tree. Mulch helps to keep the soil moist, which is especially important in warm climates. It also helps to add nutrients and prevent weeds from growing.
A three-inch layer of shredded bark, wood chips, or pine needles is usually enough. You’ll need to replace the mulch every year or so, as it breaks down over time.
Pests and Disease
Finally, you’ll need to be on the lookout for pests and disease. Meyer lemon trees are susceptible to scale insects, aphids, and other pests that can damage the tree. If left untreated, the pests can quickly spread and cause the tree to become unproductive.
If you notice any signs of infestation, it’s important to take action right away. You can use organic insecticidal soap or a horticultural oil to ward off the pests. Be sure to spray the tree thoroughly, as they can be found hiding in the nooks and crannies of the leaves and branches.
If you take the necessary precautions, you can keep your meyer lemon tree healthy. With the right combination of sunlight, water, and nutrients, your meyer lemon tree will start to bear fruit in no time.
