Gina Heslop
Lemon seeds, often discarded without a second thought, hold untapped potential beyond their conventional use in cooking. Beyond the familiar application of lemons in seasoning, sauces, and desserts, the seeds themselves can be repurposed in intriguing ways.
To maximize the utility of lemon seeds, the first step is to save them after using the lemon. After extracting the juice, pulp, and zest, set the seeds aside, rinse them thoroughly in room temperature water using a strainer, and dry them on a paper towel. Armed with tweezers, delicately peel the skin covering the seeds.
A yogurt pot filled with damp cotton serves as an ideal environment for the seeds’ transformation. Place the seeds in the cotton-filled container and allow them to sit for at least a week. Within this time frame, the seeds will sprout, developing into small shoots. Continue maintaining a moist environment for the seeds to grow further, eventually forming small roots. Once this stage is reached, plant the seed in a small pot with a well-draining mixture of soil and perlite. With proper care—ensuring a well-lit, warm location free from drafts and consistently moist soil—a lemon tree will emerge, promising future juicy fruits.
Beyond cultivating new plants, lemon seeds can be repurposed for a delightful olfactory experience. By not removing the seed’s skin after rinsing, the natural citrus scent is preserved. Place the seeds in a small canvas bag and utilize them to scent drawers, cabinets, or even rooms. During winter, attaching the bag to a radiator releases a pleasant lemon aroma, transforming the environment.
In essence, lemon seeds, often overlooked and discarded, reveal a dual potential—to grow new lemon trees and to serve as a natural, long-lasting perfume for the home. Embracing these alternative uses adds a touch of ingenuity to the otherwise routine act of disposing of lemon seeds, inviting us to explore the multifaceted nature of this citrus fruit.
