How to Grow Meyer Lemons from Seeds

Meyer lemons are a delightful citrus fruit known for their sweeter flavor and thin, fragrant skin. Growing your own Meyer lemon tree from seeds can be a rewarding and enjoyable process. While it takes patience and care, the result is a beautiful, fruit-bearing tree that can brighten any home or garden. This guide will walk you through the steps of how to grow meyer lemons from seeds, ensuring a thriving plant that will provide fresh, delicious fruit for years to come.

What Are Meyer Lemons?

Meyer lemons are a unique hybrid citrus fruit, believed to be a cross between a regular lemon and a mandarin orange. They are smaller and rounder than traditional lemons, with a deep yellow to orange-hued skin that is both thinner and more fragrant. Known for their sweeter, less acidic flavor, Meyer lemons are a popular choice for culinary uses, from desserts and drinks to savory dishes. Originally native to China, they were introduced to the United States in the early 20th century by Frank N. Meyer, for whom the fruit is named. Their distinct flavor and versatility make them a favorite among home gardeners and chefs alike.

Tools and Materials Needed

To grow and care for Meyer lemons, you will need the following tools and materials:

• High-quality potting soil: Choose a well-draining soil mix designed for citrus plants.
• A container with drainage holes: Ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth, ideally 10-15 gallons in size.
• Meyer lemon tree sapling: Purchase a healthy sapling from a trusted nursery or supplier.
• Fertilizer for citrus plants: Use a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for citrus trees to promote growth and fruit production.
• Pruning shears: Keep these on hand to remove dead or overcrowded branches.
• Watering can or hose with a gentle nozzle: Regular watering is crucial for maintaining soil moisture.
• Mulch: Applying mulch around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and regulate temperature.
• Grow light (optional): If growing indoors or in low-light conditions, a grow light can supplement natural sunlight.

10 Methods How to Grow Meyer Lemons from Seeds

1. Select Ripe and Organic Meyer Lemons for Seed Collection

The first step in growing Meyer lemons from seeds is choosing the right fruit. It’s best to select fully ripe, organic Meyer lemons, as non-organic fruits may be treated with chemicals that inhibit germination. Organic lemons are more likely to produce viable seeds that haven’t been irradiated or chemically sterilized. Ripe Meyer lemons will be slightly soft to the touch and have a rich, golden-yellow skin. Once you have a healthy lemon, cut it open carefully and extract several seeds, selecting the plump, unbroken ones. Using high-quality seeds gives you a better chance of successful germination.

2. Clean and Rinse the Seeds Immediately After Harvesting

After removing seeds from the lemon, rinse them thoroughly under cool water to remove all the pulp and sugary residue. This is an important step because leftover fruit sugars can promote mold or bacterial growth once the seeds are planted. You may gently rub the seeds between your fingers or use a paper towel to pat them dry. Be careful not to damage the seed coat during this process. Clean seeds reduce the risk of contamination and help create a healthier germination environment.

3. Peel Off the Outer Seed Coat to Speed Germination

Though optional, peeling the tough outer seed coat can accelerate the germination process. To do this, carefully nick the pointed end of the seed with a clean fingernail or use tweezers to gently peel away the outer layer, exposing the softer, inner seed. This step allows moisture to penetrate more easily, helping the seed sprout faster. However, it must be done cautiously, as damaging the inner embryo can prevent germination. This technique is particularly useful for growers looking to speed up the process or increase germination rates.

4. Germinate Seeds Using the Paper Towel Method

One of the most reliable ways to start Meyer lemon seeds is the paper towel method. Moisten a paper towel with water, then spread the seeds evenly on one half of the towel. Fold the towel over the seeds and place it inside a plastic sandwich bag to retain humidity. Store the bag in a warm, dark place such as the top of a refrigerator or a cupboard. Check every few days for mold or sprouts. Within 1 to 2 weeks, the seeds will begin to crack open and show small roots, indicating they are ready for planting.

5. Plant Germinated Seeds in Small Pots with Quality Soil

Once the seeds sprout, they should be transferred to small pots filled with well-draining potting soil. Use a mix designed for citrus or create your own blend using equal parts potting soil, peat moss, or coco coir, and perlite. Fill the pots and make a small hole about half an inch deep. Gently place the seed root-side down and cover lightly with soil. Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom. Providing a good foundation with proper soil ensures the seedlings develop strong roots and healthy growth.

6. Provide Warmth and Indirect Sunlight for Seedlings

Newly planted Meyer lemon seedlings require warmth and consistent, indirect sunlight to grow. Keep the pots in a warm location where temperatures stay between 70–80°F (21–27°C). A south-facing windowsill, greenhouse, or heated grow light station is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight at this stage, as the young sprouts are sensitive and may wilt. Maintaining a warm, stable environment encourages vigorous seedling development and prepares the young trees for transplanting when they mature.

7. Water Consistently Without Over-Saturating the Soil

Watering correctly is essential during the seedling phase. The soil should remain consistently moist but not soggy, as overly wet soil can lead to root rot or fungal diseases. Use a spray bottle or a gentle watering can to moisten the soil when the top inch begins to dry. Good drainage is also critical—ensure pots have drainage holes and never let them sit in standing water. Proper hydration at this stage helps seedlings establish healthy roots and prevents stress or disease.

8. Transplant Seedlings to Larger Containers as They Grow

As the seedlings grow and develop several true leaves, they will outgrow their starter pots and require transplanting into larger containers. Choose pots with drainage holes and fill them with fresh, well-draining citrus soil mix. Gently remove the seedling, keeping the root ball intact, and place it into the new container, covering the roots with soil and watering thoroughly. Gradual transplanting gives the tree more space to expand its root system, which is essential for long-term health and eventual fruit production.

9. Harden Off Seedlings Before Moving Outdoors

Before placing young Meyer lemon trees outside permanently, they need to be hardened off. This means slowly acclimating them to outdoor conditions such as sunlight, wind, and temperature changes. Begin by placing the seedlings outdoors in partial shade for a few hours each day, gradually increasing exposure over a week or two. This transition period helps prevent transplant shock and sunburn. Once the plants are well-adjusted, they can be left outside full-time, weather permitting, or moved into larger outdoor pots if you’re in a cooler climate.

10. Maintain Regular Care for Long-Term Growth and Fruit Production

After successfully establishing your young Meyer lemon trees, consistent care is key for them to thrive. Provide full sun exposure—at least 6 to 8 hours a day—and water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Feed with a balanced fertilizer formulated for citrus every 4–6 weeks during the growing season. Prune lightly to encourage branching and remove dead or weak growth. With proper maintenance, your tree may begin to flower and produce fruit within 3 to 5 years, rewarding your patience with fragrant blooms and delicious lemons.

Safety Considerations

When caring for your lemon tree, it is important to take certain safety considerations into account. Always wear gloves when pruning or handling the tree to protect your hands from sharp thorns and potential skin irritation from the sap. Additionally, if you are using chemical fertilizers or pesticides, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and store these products out of reach of children and pets. Ensure that tools like pruning shears are sharp and in good condition to avoid accidents or injury.

Lastly, if your tree is indoors or in a confined space, ensure proper ventilation to mitigate any risks associated with fumes from sprays or fertilizers. Taking these precautions will help keep you and your surroundings safe while maintaining a healthy tree.

Conclusion

Growing Meyer lemons from seeds is a rewarding and educational journey, especially for gardeners who enjoy nurturing plants from the very beginning. By carefully selecting and preparing the seeds, encouraging proper germination, and providing consistent care, you can cultivate a thriving lemon tree right at home. Although the process requires time and patience, the result—a lush, fruit-bearing tree—is well worth the effort. With these ten methods, anyone can enjoy the beauty and flavor of homegrown Meyer lemons for years to come. Follow these simple instructions outlined in this blog post about how to grow meyer lemons from seeds, and you’ll be able to get the job done with ease.