When my oldest daughter was born, I started a little lemon tree.  To me, it was as simple as washing the seeds and throwing them in some dirt.  My poor little tree did not make it very long and since then, every now and again, I will try to grow another.  Thus far, nothing has sprouted.  So, I do what we all do when we are stuck – I google!

I found that there are many, many ways to make sure that your little seeds start to sprout.  I tried the least complicated method and improvised a bit (as I always do when I’m feeling lazy).  All you need are one or two lemons (1 will give you plenty of seeds), a knife, a plastic container (I used a yogurt container – great way to recycle!), a hammer, a nail and some soil.  Below is the way that worked for me:

I used the seeds of a regular lemon purchased at the grocery store.  I washed and dried them so that they wouldn’t be slimy and hard to handle.

Try not to cut into the seed itself.  This could get tricky, but after the 3rd or 4th seed, it gets easier.

I used my nails to pry them open.  again, with practice it gets much easier

I used an old yogurt container.  They are the perfect size for starting seeds.

The more holes you make, the better drainage you get.

Water them often.  Make sure the soil is always moist.  I placed mine on  my kitchen window sill.

After 2-3 weeks, they will begin to sprout.  I almost gave hope, but I eventually saw progress!

My little plant is growing nicely!  I am going to give it another week or two before transferring them into a bigger, permanent container.  What’s the best thing about the lemon plant you ask?  When you gently squeeze the  leaves, you can smell the yummy lemony scent!  Of course you won’t get lemons growing on it anytime soon.  From what  I have read, that takes about 6 years to happen.  In the meantime, take care of it, water it regularly and enjoy the beauty of it!