How to Propagate a Lemon Tree for an Endless Supply of Citrus

Lemons are a great ingredient to have on hand, whether you use them to flavor your water or add a refreshing, citrusy bite to meals. To keep your lemons abundant, consider creating a new lemon tree from an existing one. You can propagate a lemon tree by removing a cutting from an existing tree or from seed. While it may take a few years for the plant to bear fruit, under the right growing conditions, it will grow into a healthy, fruit-producing tree. Ahead, experts share their go-to methods for propagating a lemon tree the right way.

When to Propagate a Lemon Tree

Timing is essential when propagating a lemon tree. "Ideally, lemon trees should be propagated in the spring or early summer while the plant is actively growing," says Mark Canney, urban forester and certified arborist for Arbor Day Foundation. "During this period, the tree is in its most robust state. Winter months are discouraged as lemon trees are typically in a state of dormancy and should be left undisturbed."

How to Propagate a Lemon Tree in Soil

One of the easiest ways to propagate a lemon tree is to root a branch cutting in soil. Here's how Canney says to do it.

1. Using pruning shears, select a 6- to 8-inch cutting from a healthy, mature lemon tree. The branch should be flexible and free of any signs of disease or damage.
2. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few leaves at the top.
3. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
4. Fill a container with well-draining potting soil. Dig a hole in the center.
5. Place the cutting in the hole and add more soil around it so it's secure.
6. Water the soil thoroughly, making sure not to get the cutting wet.
7. Place the container in an area that is 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and receives bright, indirect sunlight.
   

How to Propagate a Lemon Tree in Water

Another easy way to propagate a lemon tree quickly is by growing the cuttings in water. "Not only is this an effective approach, but it reduces the need for any special equipment and even soil," says Canney.

1. Using pruning shears, select a 6- to 8-inch cutting from a healthy, mature lemon tree. The branch should be flexible and free of any signs of disease or damage.
2. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few leaves at the top.
3. Select a clear glass container or vase that is tall enough to accommodate the length of the cutting.
4. Fill the glass container with fresh water, then insert the bottom end of the cutting into the water. 
5. Place the container in an area that is 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and receives bright, indirect sunlight.
6. Change the water in the container every few days to prevent stagnation and ensure that the cuttings have a constant supply of oxygen.

How to Propagate a Lemon Tree From Seed

Don't have a mature lemon tree to take cuttings from? No worries. You can also propagate a lemon tree from seed, says Linda Langelo, horticulture specialist at Colorado State University.

1. Collect seeds from a ripe lemon. Rinse the seeds to remove the pulp and residue.
2. Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 24 to 48 hours. You will need to change the water several times throughout this process to keep it warm.
3. Fill small containers with moist, well-draining soil. Place one seed in each container and cover with soil so they're 1/2 inch deep.
4. Place the containers in an area that is 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and receives bright, indirect sunlight. (A seedling heat mat keeps the soil temperature consistent.)
5. Water the seedlings and keep the soil consistently moist.
6. Cover the seeds with plastic wrap, a dome, or a lid to keep the humidity high. Once the seeds germinate, remove the cover.

How to Propagate a Lemon Tree by Air Layering

Another way to propagate a lemon tree is by air layering. The roots will develop faster with this method because nutrients and water are constantly supplied from the parent plant, says Langelo.

1. Select a branch free of disease, insects, flowers, or fruit.
2. Make a circular incision with a sharp, sterile knife about 1 to 1.5 inches wide around the branch.
3. Remove the bark and scrape away the green cambium layer beneath it. 
4. Add rooting hormone around the incision.
5. Soak sphagnum moss or coco coir. Apply it to the branch, making sure it is only moist.
6. Cover the moss with plastic wrap, securing it with twist ties.
7. Cover the plastic wrap with aluminum foil.
8. Periodically check the moss by carefully opening the plastic wrap. Mist the moss if needed.
9. Once there are enough healthy roots (in about six to eight weeks), this piece can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted.

How to Transplant Lemon Tree Cuttings

When the roots have developed, Canney says you can transplant the cuttings by following these steps.

1. Fill a 1-gallon container with well-draining soil.
2. Create a hole in the center of the soil.
3. Insert the cutting into the hole and carefully add more soil around the base.
4. Water the soil thoroughly.
5. Place the container in an area that is 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and receives bright, indirect sunlight.

How to Care for the Lemon Tree Cuttings

Young lemon tree plants need bright, indirect light and warm temperatures. Place the transplant in a bright location where temperatures stay above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Lemon trees also need high humidity, so mist the transplant daily or position it over a pebble tray. Water the transplant deeply at regular intervals, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings, says Canney.

Fertilize young lemon trees once every one to two months during their active growth period. They don't need to be fertilized when they're dormant. Low nitrogen, slow-release fertilizer is an excellent way to feed this plant, Canney says.