When To Plant Citrus Trees In Tucson

Most citrus plants can be planted at any time of the year. That said, planting them in the early spring or fall gives them a chance to put down roots before harsher weather comes along. Ideally, you should plant the trees in March or April, or you can wait until September and October.

What month do you plant citrus trees?

Citrus trees can be planted any time after the danger of frost has passed, which in our area is usually around mid-to-late March. It's a good idea to plant citrus early – try to have your trees in the ground by May – because a sudden hot spell may damage trees that are not well established.

What months do you fertilize citrus in Arizona?

For oranges, tangerines, and grapefruit, apply ⅓ of the recommended range of fertilizer in January-February, ⅓ in March-April and ⅓ in May-June. 5. For lemons and limes, apply ⅓ of the recommended range of fertilizer in January-February, ⅓ in March-April and ⅓ in August-September.

Can you grow citrus in Tucson Arizona?

Arizona's citrus industry predates statehood by decades. The sun and soil are perfect for growing oranges, tangerines, lemons and grapefruit. Citrus is one of the state's iconic 5 Cs: Citrus, Cotton, Climate, Cattle and Copper.

Do you need 2 citrus trees to produce fruit?

There is always a lot of confusion about fruit trees, and how exactly to make sure they carry fruit. Some, like apples, need another variety to pollinate them, but citrus do not. Just one tree will produce a big crop, with no need for a second one of a different variety.

Can you plant citrus trees in fall?

From grapefruits to lemons, limes, and oranges, many gardeners grow a variety of citrus fruits successfully and many prefer planting in the fall to give their trees plenty of time over the winter to develop a strong root system. Trees also require less water in the colder months and less watering is always a plus.

How long does it take for citrus trees to bear fruit?

Most citrus varieties are self-fertile, so only one tree is typically needed for fruit production. On average, fruit bearing begins when the trees are between 3 and 6 years old. However, exact timing will depend on the type of citrus, the cultivar, your climate, the health of the plant and its care, and other factors.

Can I plant a lemon tree in the fall?

Fall, with its milder temperatures, is a perfect time to plant citrus. Establishing a citrus plant before frost can help it weather the winter. Citrus prefer a hot south or west facing location with good draining soil.

Do citrus trees like sun or shade?

Understand the light and temperature requirements of citrus – Citrus trees need 8 hours of sun and a sunny, wind-free location is ideal. Citrus trees are also very frost-sensitive and must be protected or moved inside to a covered area in cold weather.

How do you prepare soil for planting citrus?

Citrus trees prefer deep, well-drained, sandy loam soils. Improve heavy soils by incorporating large amounts of compost and a few buckets of gypsum into a planting area at least 2m wide. Mound the soil to approximately 30-40cm deep in the centre to improve the drainage. The preferred pH is 6-7.5.

What is the best orange tree for Arizona?

Types of Oranges Ideal for our Climate The types of orange trees we can grow in our area include Navel, Valencia, Trovita, and the Arizona Sweet Orange. These are all names of oranges that are familiar to us. After all, these are types of orange fruit commonly found in many grocery stores.

What is the best fertilizer for citrus trees in Arizona?

Use Ammonium Sulfate, Ammonium Phosphate or Citrus Food fertilizer. The amount of fertilizer needed per year depends on the age, the size, and the type of tree. For example, a medium-sized adult tree 5-6 years after planting needs 6.2 pounds of Ammonium Sulfate per year (split into three applications).

What citrus trees grow in Tucson?

The hardiest citrus for our climate are oranges and tangerine varieties, followed by Meyer lemons, grapefruit, and limes (which are least hardy). Civano nursery has a great website on citrus care, hardiness, and varieties. The University of Arizona's handout on orange varieties is helpful as well.

Do citrus trees need a lot of water?

Citrus trees thrive with regular, deep water growing in well-drained soil. A newly planted citrus tree should be watered at least weekly with enough water to saturate the soil around the drip zone.

How do you grow citrus trees in Tucson?

Give your citrus tree the best chance for a long and healthy life by planting it correctly. Dig a hole 3 to 5 times wider than the diameter of the container of the citrus tree, but no deeper. Wide holes encourage the roots to grow outward through the soil and anchor the tree. Plant as deep as the root level of the pot.

Where is the best place to plant citrus trees?

Citrus trees do not like standing water. They prefer sandy soils. A site that receives full sun works best, but at least 50% sun is needed. Planting on the southern side of a house, lake or other structure that offers wind protection will help protect your tree from cold.

Can I grow citrus trees in pots?

A new citrus tree will grow fine in an 8-inch diameter container to start. Two to three year old trees will need a 10 to 12 inch diameter container. Eventually, you'll need a 16 to 20 gallon container or one-half whiskey barrel-sized container for long term growth.

Can citrus trees be planted next to each other?

If maintained and pruned well, citrus trees make excellent companions with other citrus trees, regardless of variety, when planted 2 to 5 feet apart as evergreen espaliers, hedges, or living fences, or when planted intensively with up to four trees planted in a single hole and grown as a single tree.

Should I cover citrus trees in winter?

If a hard freeze is on the way, several things can help to protect young citrus trees from cold damage. Wrap the trunk in cloth or bubble wrap. Use tarps, old blankets or plastic sheeting to wrap the tree.

How do you winterize citrus trees?

Several days prior to an expected freeze, water deeply underneath the tree and surrounding area. For extra protection, wrap trunks and consider banking soil up on trunks of small trees. Drape lightweight material over entire trees, making sure it goes all the way to the ground and is vented on sunny or milder days.