Citrus trees are easy to grow
Citrus trees require very little care once they are well established. A consistent watering schedule and protection from frost, however, are critical for growth and fruit production. Grow citrus in containers and move them to protected areas in regions where temperatures drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit for more than three days in a row. Does this Spark an idea?
Site Selection
Plant citrus trees in full sun in an area protected from high winds. Citrus requires eight to 10 hours of direct light a day. Ideally, citrus should receive morning sun and late afternoon shade. In cooler climates, reduce risk of frost damage by placing citrus next to and on top of heat absorbent surfaces such as masonry and pavement. In hot regions, place containers on saucers filled with gravel and water to moderate temperatures. Heavy winds can cause leaf drop, windburn and scorching. In dry, windy regions, place trees in a sheltered location.
One to Two Year Old Trees
Young citrus trees require more care than older trees. Their leaf canopies are not big enough to keep them cool or to shade out weeds. Their shallow roots dry easily and do not anchor the trees well in high winds. To encourage the canopy to grow, pinch off any sprouts growing on the lower portion of the tree. Hand weed young citrus trees frequently and mulch with grass clippings, leaves or black plastic to prevent regrowth. Water young citrus plants twice weekly until the soil is moist 6 inches below the surface. When fruit is 1 inch in diameter, reduce irrigation to once weekly. During the first two years, fertilize citrus trees with 2 pounds of 6-6-6 fertilizer at two weeks after planting and every six weeks thereafter between February and September. Do not fertilize in late fall or during the winter months.
Fruit Bearing Trees
Citrus fruit competes with the growth of leaves and branches on young trees. Fertilization is necessary because fruiting trees divert energy and nutrients to fruit at the expense of tree growth. However, over-fertilization causes excessive leafy growth and poor fruit production. Apply 7 1/2 pounds of 6-6-6 fertilizer to a three-year-old tree four times, evenly spaced, between February and September. Apply 13 pounds of 6-6-6 fertilizer to a four-year-old tree and 18 pounds of 6-6-6 fertilizer to a five-year-old tree three times, evenly spaced, between February and September. Water trees deeply when the soil is dry 1 inch below the surface.
Soil
Citrus trees require loose, deep soil for root growth and good drainage. Water should not puddle on the soil surface and should percolate down through the soil instead of saturating the root zone for long periods of time. Test the soil for drainage before planting a citrus tree. Dig a hole 3 feet to 4 feet deep and fill it with water. Drainage is adequate if all the water is absorbed within 36 hours. Citrus grows best in soils with a pH range of 6 to 8. Citrus does not tolerate soils with a high salt content.
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