Executing citrus tree care in Phoenix requires time and attention to detail. Most tree care services would recommend that you prepare for potential issues such as root rot and thrips. It’s also necessary to know how to properly water and fertilize a citrus tree. When you maintain trees and shrubs properly, the property value can increase by up to 14%. Follow these tips in order to grow and maintain a healthy citrus tree in Phoenix.
Watering a citrus tree
It’s important to water a citrus tree properly in order to avoid the issue of root rot. Make sure that the area you water is a foot wider than the canopy of the tree. You should water for a long time slowly, allowing the water to reach two feet into the soil. Deep watering is key especially for the first three years a new tree has been planted. In certain types of soil, such as sandy and rocky soil, you need to water the tree more often. These types of soil have better drainage. If you have clay-like soil, you should water less frequently as it can hold water for longer periods, allowing roots to access it as needed.
Equally as important as watering is drying; it’s important to allow the soil to dry before you water it again. In the summer, a citrus tree should be watered around every one to two weeks. In the winter, it should only be watered every three to four weeks. Any issues related to the growth or appearance of your fruits will usually relate to improper watering. For example, if an excessive amount of fruit is dropping early from your citrus tree, it may be a sign you’re not watering enough.
Fertilizing a citrus tree
Tree care service businesses note that in the first few years, newly planted citrus trees don’t require any fertilization. When the tree starts showing new growth, you can use nitrogen on it. Be careful not to use too much nitrogen fertilizer when the tree is mature. It can cause your grapefruit or orange trees to develop thick rinds. Once it’s been about two years, you should fertilize your citrus tree about three times a year. Follow the label instructions carefully. Additionally, you should avoid fertilizing it after August arrives, which will allow the tree to go dormant in the winter.
Taking care of citrus thrips
Citrus thrips are one of the most common pests that feed on citrus trees. The rind of the fruit is what immature thrips feed on. While the fruit will still be edible, your citrus fruits will end up being scarred. In addition to scarring your fruits, thrips can also cause the tree leaves to curl and have a silver color. Spraying an insecticide can help reduce the number of thrips on your trees. Tree care service businesses would recommend doing three sprays during a light year, or around six or seven in a heavy year.
All of these tips are a part of proper citrus tree care and maintenance. Giving your citrus tree the necessary water and fertilization it needs will help it grow properly and prevent the most common issues that can occur. Proper watering and fertilizing, along with consistent pest prevention, will allow your tree to grow fruits that look beautiful and taste delicious.
