Before you consider tossing out those lemon seeds, think again! They might just be as valuable as gold. If you’re in the habit of discarding lemon seeds, it’s time to rethink and discover their potential benefits. Lemons, celebrated for their distinct tang and versatility, play a significant role in culinary and cleaning tasks alike. Rich in vitamin C, these citrus marvels originated in Asia and have made their way across the globe, especially throughout the Mediterranean regions.
Typically, we utilize lemon peels and zest to enhance our dishes and desserts, but the seeds are often overlooked. Given how frequently we use lemon juice, pulp, and zest, it seems wasteful to disregard the seeds. Here are some tips to maximize their use.
After juicing a lemon, don’t throw away the seeds. Instead, rinse them under room temperature water using a sieve, then spread them on a paper towel to dry. Next, gently peel off the outer layer of the seeds with tweezers.
Place some moist cotton in a small container, like an empty yogurt pot, and sow the seed into the cotton. In about a week, you should see a small sprout emerge.
To ensure growth, keep the cotton moist and the area around it humid. When the sapling develops tiny roots, transfer it to a small pot filled with a mix of soil and perlite for proper drainage. With regular care, in a warm and draft-free environment, and consistent soil moisture, your lemon seed can grow into a fruit-bearing tree.
But growing trees isn’t the only use for lemon seeds. They can also create a refreshing scent for drawers and cabinets. Start by rinsing the seeds without removing the skin, as they retain their citrus aroma even after being washed. Place them in a small canvas bag to freshen up drawers, closets, and even areas like the bathroom. When attached to a radiator in winter, they emit a delightful lemon scent, enhancing the ambiance of your home. Discovering the versatile uses of lemon seeds can add a touch of nature’s magic to your daily life.
