In winter, I have started citrus seeds by planting them in a pot with damp (not wet) soil and with a goose-neck lamp over the pot 24/7. The lamp provides heat and light. When they sprout, don't put the lamp too close to the tender sprouts or they may cook. The goose-neck is adjustable.

I thought you were supposed to give the plants a break from artificial light or you will burn the leaves?

I started several indoors in the winter a few years ago and they grew like gangbusters. I started them in a bag on the radiator and then moved them to a south windowsill when they came up. I lost a few to underwatering (hot dry air too close to the radiator). The survivors spend the summer outdoors and come in for the winter. They don't thrive in the winter, but they survive.

Be warned; due to my 'success' with the key limes, I now have 8 citrus of various citrus plants of varying ages, some of which I can no longer keep at home due to their size. I know it will be ages before they flower and set fruit, if at all.

Badsmerf: "I thought you were supposed to give the plants a break from artificial light or you will burn the leaves?"

That is why I said "When they sprout, don't put the lamp too close to the tender sprouts or they may cook."

Badsmerf,

The fruit of many citrus varieties ripen in the fall and
early winter. So it is a good time to plant seeds especially if bottom warmth is given. I germinate my seeds in moistened coffee filters placed in plastic zip lock bags. Usually it takes less than two weeks especially if they are soaked first and the seed sacks removed.

Be sure you plant the key limes in a well draining soil. I use alot of sand and perlite to make my potting soil better at draining. Look up soil for citrus on the internet.

Congratulations on your new "limettes".

Shohinken

Thanks for the replies. In regards to soil I have started some in just regular potting soil an am planning to repot in Al's mix after they have spouted for a couple weeks. I will be misting them twice a day and have them in a south window with supplemental light from a elbow desk light. I'm hoping to get them a good start on the summer.

My first seedlings came up over the weekend! Nice xmas present I'd say. My issue is that I have 2 out of the same seed and don't know what to do. Should I try to separate them when they get a little bigger? Cut one off? Leave them be? They will be grown in containers permanently.