Corymbia citriodora seeds, Eucalyptus citriodora

Sowing **Corymbia citriodora** (lemon eucalyptus), a tree appreciated for its aromatic foliage and slender shape, is relatively simple if you recreate the conditions suitable for its germination. Here is a complete guide to successful sowing:

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### Materials needed:
- Seeds of **Corymbia citriodora**.
- Light, well-drained substrate (mixture of seedling compost and sand or perlite).
- Seedling pots or trays.
- Spray bottle or watering can with low flow.
- Mini greenhouse or transparent plastic bag (optional).

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### Steps for sowing:

#### 1. **Sowing period**:
- Sowing can be done all year round indoors or in spring outdoors, when temperatures are warm.

#### 2. **Substrate preparation**:
- Mix lightweight seed starting soil with sand or perlite to ensure good drainage.
- Fill your pots or seed trays with this mixture.

#### 3. **Seed preparation**:
- Eucalyptus seeds are very small and mixed with natural debris (the "chaff").

#### 4. **Sowing the seeds**:
- Spread the seeds on the surface of the substrate without burying them, because they need light to germinate.
- Press lightly so that they adhere well to the substrate.

#### 5. **Watering**:
- Gently moisten the substrate with a spray bottle or a watering can at low flow.
- Maintain constant humidity without soaking.

#### 6. **Germination conditions**:
- Place the pots in a bright place, but away from direct sunlight.
- The ideal temperature for germination is **20 to 25 °C**.
- If possible, cover the pots with a clear plastic bag or use a mini greenhouse to retain heat and humidity. Ventilate regularly to avoid mold.

#### 7. **Germination**:
- Seeds typically germinate in **7 to 21 days**, depending on conditions.

#### 8. **Replanting**:
- When the seedlings reach about **5 to 10 cm** in height and develop several true leaves, transplant them into individual pots.
- Use a similar substrate and place them in a bright place.

#### 9. **Planting in open ground**:
- Transplant the young plants into their final location after **6 to 12 months**, when the plants are robust and all risk of frost has passed.
- Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.

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### Additional tips:
- **Exposure**: Lemon eucalyptus prefers full sun.
- **Soil**: It adapts well to various types of soil, but prefers well-drained soil.
- **Watering**: Water moderately, allowing the substrate to dry slightly between waterings. Once established, the tree tolerates drought well.
- **Hardiness**: This species is sensitive to cold. It does not tolerate temperatures below **-2 °C**. In cold regions, grow it in a pot so that you can bring it inside in winter.
- **Maintenance**: Prune young plants regularly to encourage structured growth.

With these steps you will be able to successfully grow **Corymbia citriodora**, an aromatic and elegant tree that will add an exotic touch to your garden or terrace. 🌱