Factors to Consider When Planting a New Grove

Growers have numerous things to think about when planting a new grove. University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) citrus genetic improvement specialist John Chater discussed this topic during a recent Citrus & Specialty Crop Expo presentation. Following are highlights from his talk on establishing new varieties in a new citrus grove.

PESTS AND DISEASES

Soilborne pests may be present in a new grove site for many years. Consider planting elsewhere if there’s a history of diaprepes root weevils and phytophthora. 

Poorly managed neighboring groves can increase Asian citrus psyllid, HLB and canker pressures.

SOIL ISSUES

Chater offered this advice on soil considerations:

• If mineral nutrients aren’t in the prospective new grove, the plant will suffer.
• If the soil pH is wrong, trees can’t take up some nutrients. According to UF/IFAS, optimal pH for water and soil for citrus production is between 5.8 and 6.5. Most irrigation water in Florida is alkaline and can affect soil pH and other factors.
• Cation exchange capacity (CEC) is affected by soil organic matter, which is often low (0% to 1%) in Florida soils. Adding mulch and other composted materials may help CEC. Adjusting soil pH prior to planting is a good idea because it can take a long time to adjust soil pH.
• Proper moisture is tricky to achieve in Florida soils. Sandy soil drains quickly, making it a challenge to maintain optimal moisture levels.

WATER CONSIDERATIONS

In poorly drained areas, trees can be planted in double-row raised beds or with other methods to help with drainage, such as water furrows, ditches and tile drains.

Growers must have access to enough water. Pump volume capacity must meet the maximum water volume the grove needs.Adequate water volume is also needed for freeze protection via microsprinklers.

Water shouldn’t be alkaline or have high levels of bicarbonate. Less than 100 parts per million is best. 

PLANTING TREES

Growers should obtain the highest quality young trees possible. It can take 1.5 years for plants to be ready once ordered from the nursery.

Young trees can be planted most times of the year. Plant in spring if freeze is a concern.

Plant all trees the day they are obtained. If that’s not possible, keep roots moist and in the shade. Make sure there’s no root circling or J-rooting.

If using individual protective covers, make sure they are on hand for the day of planting.

Scion selection is as important as rootstock selection. The scion will determine when harvest occurs.

BEST BETS FOR HLB TOLERANCE

Some newer scions, teamed with the right rootstocks, have HLB tolerance. Some that look best include OLL-8 on UFR-17, the new DC line on US-942, and N13-32 Hamlin on UFR-4 or UFR-17.

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