Disclaimer: Our editors have used AI to create or enhance parts of this article and some images. All content has been fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy.
Dreaming of your own key lime tree?
Guess what? You can grow one from a seed!
It’s easier than you think. Just follow these 7 simple tactics.
Get ready for fresh limes straight from your garden.
Let’s get growing!
Get Your Key Lime Seeds
First things first, grab some key lime seeds. You can snag them from a fresh key lime or buy a pack online or from your local nursery.
If you go the fresh lime route, gently rinse the seeds to remove any fruit pulp. Then, let them dry for a day or two to prevent mold from growing after planting.
Easy peasy!
Set Up a Seed-Starting Tray
Get yourself a seed-starting tray with good drainage. Use a mix that’s light and fluffy, like seed-starting potting mix.
This stuff gives your seeds the best chance to sprout. Fill the tray with the mix, leaving a bit of room at the top, and lightly water it, so it’s damp but not soaked.
You’re now ready to plant!
Plant and Cover Your Seeds
Plant your seeds about half an inch deep. Don’t be shy!
Gently cover them with more potting mix and lightly pat it down. Give them a misting with water.
Pop a plastic cover or some plastic wrap over the tray to keep humidity high, and voilà! Now your seeds are snug and ready to grow.
Give Them Warmth and Light
Seeds love warmth. Keep the seed tray in a warm spot, ideally between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you don’t have a warm spot, consider using a seed heating mat. As for light, once they sprout, they’ll need plenty of it.
Aim for 6-8 hours of sunlight or use a grow light to help these little guys along.
Water Wisely
Be careful with watering; you don’t want to drown your seeds! Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
A spray bottle works wonders for this. Once you see seedlings pop up, continue to keep the soil moist but reduce the humidity by removing the plastic cover.
Let them breathe a bit more.
Transplanting Time
After 4-6 weeks, or once your seedlings have a few sets of leaves, it’s time to move them to bigger pots. Choose a pot that’s at least 4 inches deep and use well-draining potting mix.
Gently lift the seedlings and replant them in their new home. Water them well and let them adjust to their new digs.
Care for Your Tree
Now that your key lime tree has settled into its new pot, place it in a sunny spot. Water it regularly but ensure the soil dries out between watering.
Feed it with citrus fertilizer according to the package instructions. In a couple of years, you’ll be enjoying fresh, home-grown key limes.
How cool is that?