Into The Bloom: How To Grow Lemon Plant At Home

Lemons are a staple in our kitchens. From adding flavour to our many recipes to being a natural preservative for our fruits and veggies, this juicy, sour fruit has multiple uses. Majority of us get lemon from local vendors for everyday use. However, have you ever imagined getting the fruit right from your balcony or terrace? 

Well, if you love gardening then our new series, Into The Bloom is just for you. We have been bringing you easy guides to grow herbs, fruits, and vegetables at home. Here, read how to grow lemon plant at home.

How To Grow Lemon Plant At Home?

Lemon plant can be grown both from seeds and cuttings. Lemon seeds are easily available in the market. You can also grow the plant from the lemon you use at home. Take out some seeds, wash them thoroughly, and keep them soaked in warm water overnight. This will help the fruit germinate faster. Sow in 5-10 seeds at some distance. Cover the pot with a plastic bag having small holes. Place the pot in sunlight. In a few weeks, the seedling will begin to develop leaves. It can take six months to a year for lemons to grow under ideal conditions. 

Lemon plant can be grown from a six-inch cutting from a healthy plant. Use a branch that has no fruit or flowers and has no signs of damage. Place the cutting in the soil at a 90-degree angle. Avoid placing the cutting under direct sunlight as it will hinder its growth.

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How To Grow Your Lemon Plant Quickly?

• Make sure the plant gets enough sunlight throughout the day. Lemon plants need at least 10 to 14 hours of sunlight during the initial days. 
• Get slightly acidic soil from a nursery since it is considered the best to grow a lemon plant. You can also prepare your own mix of soil at home using a regular potting mixture and sand in equal parts. 
• Lemon plant requires fertilisation twice a year. Make sure you get this done to keep your plant healthy.

• Water your plant regularly. Lemon plant needs watering 2 to 3 times a week. 
• If you feel the top layer of the soil is dry, water it immediately and don't wait for the soil to dry out completely. However, never over-water the plant as it can completely stop plant growth. 
• If you see the seedlings getting wider then consider moving them to individual pots to maintain their growth and health.

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• Though the lemon plant grows easily in all kinds of pots, it is best to use a lightweight pot for this fruit. The container should be big and have drainage holes. 
• Lemon plants don't like cold temperatures. Make sure you don't place them near indoors with air conditioning or air vents. 
• The plant often invites bugs so make sure you keep a check on it. Use a pest spray immediately if required.