Lemon Trees grown from Seeds

Summary

The author recounts the personal journey of growing lemon trees from seeds, inspired by their father's similar attempt in 1976, and shares tips for successful cultivation.

Abstract

In a nostalgic narrative, the author describes how their father planted lemon and orange seeds in 1976, using a pot of soil and cellophane to incubate them during the exceptionally hot summer. Despite the father's eventual decision to discard the seedlings, doubting their survival, the author persevered and eventually succeeded in growing six lemon trees, a process that took nearly four decades. The author reflects on their father's influence and dedication to experimentation, expressing a belief that their father would have been proud of their achievement. The article concludes with practical advice for readers interested in growing their own lemon trees, emphasizing the importance of proper care and environmental conditions.

Opinions

The author holds a sentimental view of the lemon tree project, seeing it as a connection to their father's legacy.
There is a sense of pride and accomplishment in successfully growing the lemon trees after many years of trying.
The father is portrayed as a pragmatist who underestimated the resilience of the seedlings, yet his actions did not deter the author from continuing the experiment.
The author believes in the value of persistence and extra care in nurturing plants, drawing a parallel to life's challenges.
There is an underlying tone of dedication and tribute to the author's father, who is remembered as someone who encouraged trying and experimentation.

Lemon Trees grown from Seeds

A true story

Photograph is by the author

In the hot summer of 1976, my dad put some lemon and orange seeds in a pot of soil and we watched them grow together. I remember that he also incubated them for 2 weeks underneath some cellophane.

The trees started to grow, and I remember feeling sad when my dad decided to throw them out. I remember he pinched them between his thumb and forefinger and threw them away. He was sure they wouldn’t survive. It was unusually hot that year.

Photograph is by the author

Well, almost 40 years since that summer, and I finally managed to grow some lemon trees of my own. In fact I grew a total of 6 lemon trees. I have been trying out my dad’s experiment occasionally ever since he showed me what was possible with a little extra care and attention, and one year around 4 years ago, my lemon trees finally decided to grow, and here they are pictured for you around 4 years on. My father died in 2017 so he didn’t get to see them, but I think he would be very proud to see them.

They’re for you dad, because you were a trier, and so am I.

Tips to grow lemon trees

Keep under glass (an old goldfish bowl is a good incubator.)

The trees need indirect sunlight and an even temperature.

Do not place near radiators or in direct sunlight.

Water regularly, and allow to dry out completely from time to time. This can be achieved by leaving the trees without water for 2 to 3 weeks.

If the leaves drop off, simply watch them regrow, and move them somewhere cosy.

Photograph is by the author