Lemons, a ubiquitous citrus fruit, has the power to enhance the flavour profile of any dish with just a squeeze! Beyond their culinary prowess, lemons are rich in Vitamin C, offering a much-needed health boost.

And did you know? You can cultivate these zesty gems right in your own terrace garden. Here’s a simple guide to get you started:

1. Get the right plant Aakash Jaiswal from Kanpur, who has been growing vegetables in his home garden since he was 14 years old, says, “The quality of the sapling should be good. An easy way to spot it is by having a sapling bearing more flowers.”

2. Choose the best variety Aakash explains that seedless lemons have a longer fruiting period compared to other varieties. He states that they typically bear fruit in about two years, while indigenous plant varieties take around five years.

3. Choose the right pot The branches and the roots of the lemon tree spread wide, so choose a pot that is 16 to 18 inches wide, he advises.

4. Find the ideal mix for soil Perhaps the most important step, Akash says that the soil should have 40% organic manure or fertiliser. “Vermicompost, cow dung, and other organic feed usually work best. The remaining part of the mixture should be gardening soil, which is normally mixed with sand,” he adds.

5. Nurture it like a baby Once the plant is potted, your job is only getting started. While it settles in the new environment, it is the gardener’s job to nurture it like a baby, he remarks.

6. Provide lots of sunlight “The lemon plant requires plenty of sunlight, and keeping it under shade would not be ideal. Having direct sunlight on the plant is best. Also, avoid placing the plant in a windy area,” says Aakash, and recommends watering the plant every 2 to 3 days for best results.

7. Sprinkle honey for plant health “If you feel the size of the flowers is smaller than normal, sprinkle honey over the plant. This simple trick will assist pollination from bees and help the flowering process,” he adds.

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