How to Start an Orange Tree From Seed

Orange seeds germinate quickly.

Unlike the seed of many fruit, the orange seed produces a tree that is true-to-type, or identical to the mother tree. Horticulturists at Texas A&M University say three sprouts can emerge for each planted seed. Two seeds will produce trees exactly like the mother tree. The horticulturists suggest that the third sprout, the weakest, is different from the parent plant and should be removed. It is quite easy to start an orange tree from seed.

Things You'll Need

• 4-inch planting pot
• Seed-starting mixed
• Plastic bag

Instructions

1. Soak the seed in lukewarm water for 30 minutes.

2. Pour seed-starting mix into the planter and water it until water runs from the bottom of the pot. Allow the soil to drain, then water it again.

3. Push the orange seed 1 inch into the soil. Cover the seed with soil.

4. Place the pot in an unsealed plastic bag, as air circulation is necessary to prevent fungus.

5. Place the bagged pot in a warm area, such as on top of the refrigerator. Check the soil periodically to make sure that it remains moist. Mist it with the plant misting bottle if it begins to dry out.

6. The seed should sprout within two weeks, at which time you can remove the pot from the bag and place it in a bright, warm area, but out of direct sun.

References

• Texas A&M University: Orange
• Texas A&M University: Home Fruit Production-Oranges

Resources

• Sunkist: How Citrus Trees Are Grown