A lack of adequate soil moisture could make an already challenging situation for Florida citrus growers worse. It is imperative that producers keep applying irrigation amid any prolonged dry period, says Chris Oswalt, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) citrus agent.
Oswalt noted that many citrus-producing regions in Florida have had little, if any, rain in the past two to three weeks. Having no rain when the citrus crop is getting close to maturity or already mature is problematic because drought brings additional stress to trees that are already stressed by huanglongbing (HLB) disease. This stress can accelerate fruit drop.
“It can be a tricky proposition to try to keep trees well hydrated without any rain,” warned Oswalt.
According to UF/IFAS, HLB affects citrus production across the globe. Symptoms include asymmetrical yellowing of the leaves and leaf veins. Later symptoms include twig dieback and decreased yields. Fruit is often small, lopsided and not marketable. Fruit drop can also occur as a result.
Fruit drop could worsen if the trees endure extended periods of dry weather.
“This time of year, when fruit reaches maturity, you don’t want trees to stress. If they stress, they’ll have a tendency to drop fruit. They’re already stressed with HLB. You add drought stress on top of that, and you’re likely to get even more drop,” Oswalt said. “It’s critical that you maintain adequate soil moisture. You’ve got to do that when you know the root system is somewhat limited due to HLB infection. A healthy tree has more extensive roots.
“Be sure to watch your soil moisture. Don’t let soil moisture become limiting to where it stresses the trees and causes fruit drop.”
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