Some orange varieties, such as navels and clementines, are seedless, and you won’t be able to propagate orange trees this way. [1] X Research source
Cleaning the seeds is also important for removing fungus and mold spores, and to prevent fruit flies. [2] X Research source You can clean and germinate all the seeds in the orange, and then pick the biggest and healthiest sprouts to plant.
When the seeds have soaked for 24 hours, drain the water and place the seeds on a clean towel. Don’t soak the seeds for longer than this, or they may become waterlogged and not sprout.
After transplanting the seed to a pot, continue providing it with lots of direct sunlight every day.
If the soil dries out too often, the orange tree will not survive. [4] X Research source As the seedling develops into a tree, it will start getting bigger and grow leaves.
Fill the pot most of the way with potting soil. Mix in a handful of peat moss and a handful of sand to provide the tree with well-draining and slightly acidic soil. Orange trees like a pH between 6 and 7. 0. You can also look for citrus-specific potting soils at your garden center.
Water the soil right away so that it’s moist.
In warm climates, you can move the potted tree outside in spring and summer, but place it somewhere that’s protected from strong winds. [5] X Research source
During the winter months, allow the top layer of soil to dry out partially before watering. [6] X Trustworthy Source Royal Horticultural Society Leading gardening charity in the U. K. providing resources for identifying, growing and caring for flowers and other plants Go to source
There are also citrus specific fertilizers that you may be able to find at a garden center.
Orange trees will typically not survive if they’re exposed to temperatures below 25 F (-4 C), so they can’t be permanently transplanted outside in cooler areas. Fully grown orange trees are large, so if you live in a cooler climate, keep the tree in a solarium or greenhouse if possible.
