NIPPON ORANGEQUAT TREE

SITE SELECTION AND CORRECT SPACING FOR CITRUS TREES

We can’t control the climate, but we can select planting sites that maximize the chances of success and minimize the need for freeze protection. In general, cold winds come from the north and west. Never plant citrus in the North wind! Cold air drains down slopes, so the tops and sides of hills are warmer than low spots. Overhanging trees help trap heat, as do ponds or other water bodies. Citrus on the south or east of buildings will be protected from north winds and will receive heat radiated from the house. As you plan your plantings, try to locate potential sites offering some cold protection combined with maximum sunlight and good drainage. Where do you like to be when the cold winds blow? Put your citrus in that spot.

Well-drained sandy loam soils are preferred, but citrus will grow on many soil types if good drainage is provided. Citrus will grow more vigorously and produce more fruit in full sun. By full sun we mean at least 6 hours of sun in the afternoon. You can also grow citrus under pine trees as long as you have shifting light all day long.

MATURE HEIGHT AND SPACING When thinking about where to place your citrus tree, it pays to think about how large the trees will get. With citrus the tree size is determined by fruit type and what root stock the tree is grafted on. See the chart for good guidelines. 

GETTING THE SOIL RIGHT AND PLANTING CITRUS TREES

Citrus on trifoliate orange rootstock require a somewhat acid soil (pH 5.5-6.0). If you are in doubt about the pH of your soil, take a soil sample to the Cooperative Extension Agent in your county for a soil test. Adjust soil acidity as necessary. Citrus on its own root (no graft) like a more alkaline soil (6.0-6.5). Depending on the tree you have follow one of these two planting instructions.

Gently remove the plant from the pot and place in the planting hole. To avoid burying too deep, make sure plant is positioned with the top most roots at the soil line. Fill the planting hole with the mix of soil and organic matter; gently tamp it in. Water thoroughly to settle the roots and eliminate air pockets.

Do NOT put fertilizer in the planting hole. Only apply fertilizer if it is the correct time of year (see Fertilization section below).

If desired, construct a water basin around the base of the tree approximately 36 inches in diameter. Keep the area under the canopy of the tree clear of grass and weeds to minimize competition for water and nutrients.

MULCHING Mulch the area under the canopy with 2-3 inches of mulch, leaving an area about 6 inches from the trunk mulch free or at most only ½ inch thick. Citrus like their roots on top and slightly exposed. There seems to be some controversy on whether to mulch citrus or not. Some soil born fungus like Phytophthora  are known to live in mulch and this can be a possible issue. The trifoliate orange root stocks like soils with high organic matter, so we feel mulching can be beneficial in sandy soils. When growing citrus in soils naturally high in organic matter like  clay, it is advisable not to mulch the trees.