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Growing Orange Trees from Seed: A Fun Project for Kids

How to Sprout Citrus Seeds

Orange (and other citrus) seeds germinate readily. Clean off pulp, plant ½ inch deep in moist potting soil, keep warm (70–80°F) and moist but not soggy. Sprouts appear in 10–14 days.

Long-Term Care

Treat as a shrub: prune top at 3–4 feet to encourage branching.
Provide full sun in summer; bring indoors before frost (citrus survives light freezes but not prolonged cold).
Reduce watering and stop fertilizing in winter.
Move outdoors when nights stay above 45°F.

You may get fruit in several years, but the fragrant blossoms are a reward in themselves.

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