If you live in Sonoma County, chances are you or your neighbor has a lemon tree overflowing with fruit. When life gives you lemons why not put them to good use? Here are five creative and practical ways to make the most of your homegrown citrus bounty.

1. Preserved Lemons for Cooking

Preserved lemons add a rich, salty-sour flavor to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. To make them, simply slice lemons into quarters (keeping them attached at the base), pack them with kosher salt, and store them in a jar with their own juices and additional lemon juice. After a few weeks, they’ll be ready to enhance everything from roasted chicken to salad dressings.

2. Natural All-Purpose Cleaner

Lemons have natural antibacterial properties and can be used to make a simple, effective cleaner. Fill a jar with lemon peels and cover them with white vinegar. Let it sit for two weeks, then strain the liquid into a spray bottle. This citrus-infused vinegar makes a great non-toxic cleaner for countertops, sinks, and glass.

3. Homemade Lemonade (With a Twist!)

There’s nothing more refreshing than homemade lemonade. For a fun twist, try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or basil, or mix in other fruits like strawberries or blackberries. Simply combine fresh lemon juice, water, and a sweetener of your choice (honey, agave, or sugar) and enjoy a taste of summer any time of year.

4. Citrus-Infused Olive Oil

Lemon-infused olive oil is perfect for drizzling over salads, grilled vegetables, or fish. To make your own, gently warm olive oil with lemon zest (avoid the bitter white pith) for about 10 minutes. Let it cool, strain out the zest, and store it in a bottle. The result is a bright, flavorful oil that elevates any dish.

5. DIY Lemon-Sugar Scrub

Lemons aren’t just for the kitchen—they’re great for skincare too! A simple lemon-sugar scrub exfoliates and brightens skin naturally. Mix 1 cup of sugar with ¼ cup of olive oil or coconut oil, then add the zest and juice of one lemon. Store it in a jar and use it to keep your hands soft and refreshed.

Put Those Lemons to Work

Whether you use them in the kitchen, for cleaning, or as part of your self-care routine, lemons are one of the most versatile backyard fruits. If you find yourself with more than you can handle, consider sharing with neighbors, making a big batch of preserved lemons, or even donating them to a local food bank. Happy harvesting!

At LandZen, we love incorporating fruit trees into our landscape designs. If you're interested in adding citrus trees to your property, get in touch with us to create a space that’s as beautiful as it is functional!