Planting Cold-Hardy Citrus in Florida

Muhmmad Shahid and Shahid Iqbal recently provided advice on planting cold-hardy citrus in Florida. Shahid is an assistant professor of horticulture/fruit physiologist, and Iqbal is a postdoctoral scholar in horticultural sciences, both at the University of Florida North Florida Research and Education Center. Edited excerpts from their article in the Cold Hardy Citrus Connection follow:

BEFORE YOU PLANT

Properly planting citrus trees is crucial for their long-term health and productivity. Prior to planting, determine the soil characteristics such as pH, fertility, nutrient level, drainage and topography.

Planting time is very important for establishing a good root system. Planting in the cold-hardy region can be done any time mid-April to early August.

INSTALLATION TIPS

Follow these guidelines when planting citrus trees:

• Remove weeds and grass from the planting area.
• Dig a hole about 8 to 10 inches larger than the root ball of the plant. The hole can be dug with a tractor- or excavator-operated drill.
• Fill the hole with water.
• Remove the plant from the pot and check for damaged roots.
• Remove any girdling roots or J roots before planting. Without this important step, trees will experience reduced growth or even death later on.
• Place the plant in the water-filled hole to the same level as the top of the root ball. Do not put the bud union (grafting point) below the soil.
• Add the soil back to the hole to fill the air pocket under and around the root ball.
• Do not add fertilizer to the hole at the time of planting. Fertilizer application should be made after the tree has settled with the soil.
• Check the next day for any air pockets/cracks that may remain. Fill air pockets/cracks with soil and water.
• Install tree wraps, as they provide protection to the tree trunk from applications of herbicides. Wraps also minimize light interception by trunk tissue, thereby reducing sucker growth.

POST-PLANTING POINTERS

After planting, proper management is needed to ensure healthy and vigorous growth. Post-planting tips include:

• Provide regular irrigation to the plants for an initial 2 to 3 months.
• Wait 4 to 6 weeks before applying fertilizer to allow the plant to acclimate to its new environment. Apply the proper rate of fertilizer according to the age after planting, every 3 to 4 months.
• Mulching is an important technique to conserve soil moisture, reduce weed growth and maintain soil temperature.
• Apply fabric mulch or straw mulch around the base of the plant to conserve soil moisture, reduce weed growth and help prevent pests and disease.
• Pruning promotes healthy growth, improves air circulation and enhances fruit production.
• New plants should be irrigated regularly for an initial 2 to 3 months for adequate growth.

Source: University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences

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