Growing Great Citrus
Whether you love fresh grapefruit or a delicious glass of orange juice with breakfast, every yard has a spot for at least one citrus tree. They grow well in our area, just follow these tips to keep them in top shape.
(Click to open a printable PDF version of the information below.)
Planting
- Select an area in full sun.
- Make sure that the soil is well-drained and that the area never sits wet.
- Use plenty of Black Gold® soil when planting to get trees off to a good start.
- For an extra boost, add the appropriate amount of Espoma Organic® Bio-tone® Starter Plus. It is both a fertilizer for new roots and a source of mycorrhizal fungi and beneficial bacteria that improve soil health and create a sturdy root system.1
Watering
- Many problems, such as fruit split, fruit drop, and fruit drying are caused by poor watering practices.
- Always water in the morning.
- New trees need water daily for the first month, every other day for the second month, and twice weekly in the third month.
- Thereafter, make sure the tree gets at least an inch of water across the entire root system once per week. You may have to get a hose out during dry spells.
Fertilizer
- Keep trees strong by feeding them the major and minor nutrients that they need.
- Fertilize monthly for the first year with The Kerby’s Special fertilizer.
- Thereafter, fertilize three times per year (one time each in spring, summer, and fall).
Disease and Insect Control
- Early detection and preventative treatment are key.
- For disease problems, spray three times a year with Liquid Copper Fungicide. This will
prevent and treat greasy spot, scab, and alternaria spot. - Bugs love the sweet smell of citrus and the tasty young leaves. Use Neem Oil or Captain Jack’s™ Deadbug Brew weekly in the spring season (especially when it is dry and the new
blooms are out) to control insects.
Anybody can sell you plants, we make sure you succeed.