How to Plant Lime Seeds

Overview

Planting lime seeds can be a fairly simple process that will produce small, bushy trees that are no taller than 12 feet. The leaves of the lime tree are pale green and pointed. Once you've successfully planted your lime seed, however, you will need to wait four to 10 years before you see any fruit.

Step 1

Purchase true lime seeds, also known as polyembryonic seeds, online or at your local gardening store or a nursery that specializes in citrus trees. If you use seeds from a lime, they will most likely not produce identical limes.

Step 2

Wash the lime seeds thoroughly and let them dry for at least two days. Plant the seeds ¼- to ½-inch deep in a pot of soil. Make sure the pot has drainage holes.

Step 3

Water immediately after covering the seed with the planting soil. Use a half-cup of water for your first watering, then keep the soil moist but not so soggy that you flood the seed.

Step 4

Place the pot in a warm, sunny area where you live, such as a window sill. Germination should occur within two to three weeks.

Step 5

Place the seedlings in individual pots once they have reached 6 inches tall. Make sure you keep the plants in sunlight and avoid harsh, cold weather.