How to Plant a Lime Seed

There are a couple of ways to grow a lime tree from seed and knowing how to plant a lime seed is important for success. You can plant the seed directly in a pot of soil or place it in a plastic bag. Before planting lime seeds, however, be sure to wash them and you may even want to allow them to dry for a couple days, then plant them as soon as possible. Plant seeds about ¼ to ½ inch (0.5-1.25 cm.) deep in containers with well-draining soil.

Likewise, you can put seeds in a plastic baggie along with some moist soil. Regardless of the method you choose, keep the seeds moist (not soggy) and place them in a warm, sunny location. Germination usually occurs within a couple of weeks. Once seedlings have reached about 6 inches (15 cm.) tall, they can be gently lifted and placed in individual pots. Be sure to provide winter protection, as lime trees are very cold sensitive.

Grow your own! Its easy! Kaffir lime seeds germinate in 12 to 15 days when kept warm and moist. Many gardeners cover the flowerpot with plastic wrap to help maintain the humidity level necessary to sprout this subtropical tree. Once the seedlings appear, the plastic is removed. Placing the flowerpot on a tray filled with pebbles and water helps keep the humidity high enough for the Kaffir lime tree to thrive.

The Kaffir lime requires bright light and warmth to thrive in the garden or sunroom. The Kaffir lime tree is often planted in the garden in mild Mediterranean climates. It requires well-draining soil in a sunny, sheltered location where you can protect it from frost. The soil must be kept moist at all times; never let the tree dry out. Indoor trees are fertilized monthly, while outdoor trees are generally fertilized in the spring. Most gardeners prune only to shape the tree, carefully avoiding the sharp thorns on the trunk and branches. A tree planted from a seed may take up to 10 years to produce fruits.

Benefits of Kaffir Lime

Good source of antioxidants.

May boost immunity.

Could promote healthy skin.

May reduce heart disease risk.

May prevent kidney stones.

Increases iron absorption.

May lower your risk of certain cancers.