Can lemon seeds be planted directly

Lemon seeds can be directly planted, but the germination rate and growth effect may not be as ideal as professional seedling cultivation methods. Lemon seed planting requires attention to key aspects such as seed treatment, soil selection, temperature control, light management, and post cultivation.

Fresh lemon seeds need to be washed to remove residual fruit pulp, and soaked in warm water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat and improve germination rate. Choose loose and breathable nutrient soil, insert the seed tip downward into the soil about 1 centimeter deep, keep the soil moist but avoid water accumulation. The optimal temperature range is between 20-30 degrees Celsius, which can be covered with plastic wrap to create a small greenhouse effect. During germination, it should be placed in a place with sufficient scattered light, and the seedlings can be seen breaking through the soil after about 2-4 weeks. During the seedling stage, it is important to avoid direct sunlight and regularly rotate the flower pot to ensure even exposure to light. Unscreened lemon seeds may exhibit low germination rates or variety degradation, and some commercially grown hybrid lemon seeds may not be able to maintain the excellent characteristics of the maternal parent. Directly sown seedlings usually take 5-8 years to bear fruit, and there is uncertainty in the quality of the fruit. If pursuing stable fruit yield and quality, it is recommended to use asexual reproduction methods such as grafting. Before sowing, the seed coat can be lightly sanded with fine sandpaper or subjected to low-temperature layering treatment, which can help break the dormant state of the seeds. During the growth period of lemon seedlings, it is necessary to maintain a well ventilated environment and apply a small amount of organic fertilizer every 2 months. When the plant grows to a height of 15 centimeters, it can be pruned to promote branching, and the larger pot should be replaced every spring. In winter in northern regions, it is necessary to move indoors for maintenance to avoid low-temperature freezing damage below 5 degrees Celsius. Special attention should be paid to the prevention and control of pests and diseases such as red spider mites and aphids in potted lemons, and the leaves can be regularly rinsed with clean water. If you want to obtain fruits that are sweet and sour, the fruiting period should ensure at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, and the amount of nitrogen fertilizer should be appropriately controlled.