Citrus Seed Harvesting: A Guide to Growing and Harvesting Your Own Citrus Seeds

Are you a fan of citrus fruits? Do you want to grow your own citrus trees from scratch? The good news is that it's possible to grow citrus trees from seed, but first, you need to know how to harvest citrus seeds properly. In this guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know about citrus seed harvesting from start to finish.

Why Should You Harvest Citrus Seeds?

Harvesting citrus seeds is an essential step if you want to grow your own citrus trees. It's the only way to ensure that the seeds are viable and haven't been damaged during the fruit's growth or handling process. Additionally, growing citrus trees from seed can be more cost-effective than buying them from a nursery.

When Should You Harvest Citrus Seeds?

The best time to harvest citrus seeds is when the fruit is fully ripe. You can tell if a fruit is ripe by its color and texture. Oranges should be bright orange, grapefruits should be yellow, and lemons should be bright yellow. The fruit should also feel heavy in your hand and give slightly when pressed.

How to Harvest Citrus Seeds

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to harvest citrus seeds:

1. Choose a mature, healthy fruit, and cut it open with a sharp knife.
2. Gently remove the seeds from the pulp using your fingers or a spoon.
3. Rinse the seeds under cool running water to remove any remaining pulp.
4. Dry the seeds completely using a paper towel or a clean cloth.

Storing Citrus Seeds

If you're not planning on planting the seeds right away, you can store them for later use. Here's how:

1. Place the seeds in a plastic bag or an airtight container.
2. Add some moistened peat moss or vermiculite to the bag or container to help keep the seeds moist.
3. Seal the bag or container and store it in a cool, dry place.

Planting Citrus Seeds

Once you're ready to plant your citrus seeds, here's what you need to do:

1. Fill a pot with a well-draining potting mix.
2. Make a small hole in the center of the potting mix using your finger.
3. Place the seed into the hole and cover it with potting mix.
4. Water the pot well and place it in a warm, sunny location.
5. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
6. After a few weeks, you should start to see the seedling emerge from the soil.

Tips for Successful Citrus Seed Harvesting

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when harvesting and planting citrus seeds:

• Only use mature, healthy fruit for harvesting.
• Rinse the seeds thoroughly to remove any pulp remnants.
• Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you're ready to plant them.
• Use a well-draining potting mix when planting the seeds.
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

A variety of citrus fruits

Citrus Trees, Fruit Trees, Gardening Tips, Harvesting Techniques