Two Practices to Improve Citrus Production

University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) researchers recently explained the benefits of raised bed planting and mulching to improve citrus tree establishment, productivity and resilience against environmental stress. Assistant Professor Muhmmad Shahid and Postdoc Scholar Shahid Iqbal, both of the North Florida Research and Education Center, and Associate Professor Davie Kadyampakeni of the Citrus Research and Education Center discussed these practices in the October Cold Hardy Citrus Connection newsletter. Edited article excerpts follow: 

Raised beds elevate the root zone above the natural soil grade, while mulches provide a protective covering on the soil surface. Together, these approaches help mitigate soil and climatic limitations often faced in citrus production regions, particularly in areas with poorly drained soils, water scarcity and extreme temperature fluctuations.

Citrus roots are sensitive to waterlogging, compaction and nutrient imbalances. Poor soil aeration or prolonged saturation often leads to root decline, reduces nutrient uptake and increases susceptibility to root rot. Raised beds help overcome these challenges by improving soil drainage and aeration.

Mulching complements this practice by modifying the microenvironment of the soil surface. Organic or synthetic mulches conserve soil moisture, regulate temperature, suppress weeds, control soil pests such as nematodes and gradually improve soil fertility.

In regions where citrus production faces stress from drought, salinity or declining soil health, these practices become critical management tools. Their importance lies not only in enhancing fruit yield and fruit quality but also in promoting long-term sustainability in citrus groves.

BENEFITS OF RAISED BEDS

• Improved soil drainage and aeration reduce the risk of waterlogging in poorly drained soils while promoting healthy root growth and reducing the incidence of soil-borne diseases and pests.
• Enhanced root development and soil structure result in deeper and more extensive root systems that improve water and nutrient uptake.
• Elevation of the soil surface allows faster warming in the spring, stimulating early root activity and supporting vigorous shoot growth.
• Raised beds limit the risk of disease pressure, such as phytophthora and fusarium.
• The beds provide easier access for irrigation and fertigation systems, while also improving tree spacing and uniformity within the grove.
• Compared to flat ground, raised beds absorb heat more quickly during the day and release it more slowly at night. This creates a slightly warmer microclimate around the root zone and prevents freeze damage.

BENEFITS OF MULCHING

• Mulch reduces water evaporation from the soil surface, maintaining a more stable soil moisture profile.
• Mulch is a physical barrier to weed emergence, which minimizes competition for nutrients and water. Reduced weed pressure also decreases the need for herbicides, lowering input costs.
• Organic mulches — such as compost, straw or wood chips — decompose over time and add organic matter to the soil. This improves soil structure, microbial activity and nutrient availability for citrus trees.
• Mulches buffer soil temperature extremes by keeping soil cooler during hot summers and warmer during cold spells. This moderating effect protects fine roots from stress and promotes consistent growth.
• Mulches reduce raindrop impact and surface runoff, thereby preventing soil erosion and nutrient losses.

Source: UF/IFAS