Choosing the Right Variety: Popular orange tree varieties include:
- Valencia: Great for fresh juice, and it grows well in warm climates.
- Navel: A common choice for fresh eating, it’s easy to peel and has a sweet flavor.
- Blood Orange: Known for its red-hued flesh and tart-sweet flavor, it adds color to any garden.
Planting Orange Trees: Orange trees thrive in full sunlight, with at least 8-10 hours of sunlight per day. When planting, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and place the tree at the same depth as it was in the nursery pot. If planting in a container, choose a large pot (at least 18 inches) with good drainage.
Watering: Orange trees need deep watering. Water your tree deeply once a week, or more frequently in the heat of summer, ensuring that the soil around the roots is thoroughly moistened. During winter, reduce watering to avoid root rot.
Fertilizing: Orange trees require regular fertilization to produce fruit. Use a fertilizer specifically formulated for citrus trees, high in nitrogen. Apply it in early spring, then in late summer or early fall. Citrus trees also benefit from a slow-release granular fertilizer.
Pests and Diseases: Common pests include:
- Citrus Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Scale Insects: Use horticultural oil to eliminate them.
- Citrus Canker: A bacterial disease that causes lesions on fruit and leaves. Remove infected areas immediately to prevent spread.