Lemons

 An over abundant crop of lemons from one family

member created an environment ripe for experimentation. 

Last year we picked a large quantity  that were the size of oranges. We decided to juice them, freeze part and keep some for immediate use. 

They were washed thoroughly and laid on a towel to drain off excess water. Each one was sliced in half, then it was twisted over a glass juicer. The juice, pulp and seeds were poured  into a strainer that was placed over a large measuring bowl. After allowing the juice and some of the pulp to drain into the bowl, the seeds were removed to be discarded. Some of the juice was poured into ice trays or measured into small containers and frozen. Some was poured into glass bottles and placed in the refrigerator.

Each one yielded at least 10 seeds. Looking at the mountain of seeds, the question was asked "Can you grow trees from these seeds?" 

A search on the internet yielded information on how to grow the trees from seeds. The article also stated trees grown from seeds may take longer to mature and produce fruit than trees bought at a nursery or garden center. Looking at the seeds again, we thought, "What do we have to lose?" 

We followed the instructions we had found and waited to see the results. Weeks later we transferred 50 sprouting seeds to containers of dirt. Weeks went by and the 50 dwindled to 5 hardy  trees 8 to 12 inches in height each. Hopefully they will survive the winter so they can be planted in the spring.

The next question we faced was how can we use all the juice. Many recipes were considered and some were tried. 

Sheet cake with glaze was a favorite. I would like to share the recipe we enjoy.

Sheet Cake

1 pkg each lemon cake mix & instant pudding

4 eggs

3/4 cup vegetable oil

3/4 cup lemon juice (and another 1/2 cup of juice for the glaze)

Mix all the above ingredients together.

Pour into a 9 x 13 baking dish.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes.

Allow to cool for 20 minutes before adding glaze.

Glaze

2 cups powdered sugar

1/2 cup juice

Mix together and spread over top of cake.

Periodic updates on the trees and new recipes that we try will be submitted in the upcoming pages.