Fill the cup with potting soil, leaving about ½ inch of space from the top. Lightly press the soil down but don’t compact it too much—roots need air to grow.
Step 4: Plant the Seeds
Moisten the soil with water until it feels damp but not soggy. You can use a spray bottle or pour gently.
Take 2-3 seeds (planting multiples increases your chances of success) and press them about ½ inch deep into the soil, spacing them evenly if possible.
Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and gently pat it down.
Step 5: Create a Mini Greenhouse
Cover the top of the cup with plastic wrap or place the entire cup inside a clear plastic bag. Secure it loosely with a rubber band or tie.
This traps humidity and warmth, mimicking a greenhouse environment to encourage sprouting.
Poke a few tiny holes in the plastic for air circulation.
Step 6: Place in a Warm, Sunny Spot
Set the cup on a windowsill or table that gets plenty of indirect sunlight—at least 6 hours daily. A temperature between 70°F and 85°F (21°C–29°C) is ideal for germination.
Avoid direct, scorching sun at this stage, as it can dry out the soil too quickly.
Step 7: Water and Wait
Check the soil every 2-3 days. It should stay consistently moist but never waterlogged. If it feels dry, add a small amount of water.
Germination typically takes 1-6 weeks, depending on the seed quality and conditions. Be patient—some seeds sprout faster than others.
Step 8: Care for the Seedlings
Once you see green sprouts poking through the soil (usually with two small leaves called cotyledons), remove the plastic cover.
Continue watering sparingly, keeping the soil moist but not wet. Overwatering is a common mistake that can drown young roots.
If multiple seeds sprout, wait until the seedlings are 2-3 inches tall, then snip the weaker ones at soil level with scissors, leaving the strongest one to grow.
Step 9: Long-Term Care
As your lemon plant grows, it may outgrow the cup within a few months. When it reaches 6-8 inches tall or develops a few sets of true leaves, transplant it into a larger pot with good drainage.
Feed it with a diluted citrus fertilizer (follow package instructions) every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer.
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