Use and Care Manual

from the trunk and the bud union to avoid fungal diseases. Newly planted trees should be
irrigated well immediately after planting to ensure surface roots stay moist.
Irrigation Frequency
Irrigation frequency is influenced by weather, so the irrigation schedule should be adjusted
throughout the year. Irrigation efficiency is also influenced by soil type. Generally, irrigate when
the top few inches of the soil are dry and the rest of the root zone is slightly moist. Young trees
should be irrigated at least every 5 to 10 days during the summer months, or more frequently if
the root system dries out, and more frequently in hot, dry and windy conditions. Mature trees
require less frequent irrigation. Irrigation should also be less frequent when the weather is cool or
overcast.
Irrigation Amount
In general, 2 to 5 gallons of water should be applied to a newly planted tree at each watering, as
long as there is no standing water and the soil is not soggy. Established trees should be watered
so that the entire root zone is moist. A soil probe is a useful tool to determine the depth of
irrigation. The soil should be sampled to a depth of about 12 inches to determine soil moisture
content.
A mature tree with an extensive root system requires more water to wet its larger root zone than
a young tree with a smaller root mass. However, the root system of a young tree dries out more
quickly.
Fertilizing
To ensure good crops, the tree needs adequate nutrition. Nutrient deficiencies reduce yield and
adversely affect size, color, sweetness and peel texture of fruit. Typically, nitrogen is the nutrient
most often required. In some soils, other minerals may be deficient. A soil analysis can be
helpful. A complete organic citrus fertilizer with adequate nitrogen will generally supply
the other required nutrients such as iron, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium.
Trees in Containers
Since trees in containers need to be irrigated more frequently than trees in the ground, they also
require more frequent applications of fertilizer. A complete (nitrogen plus other nutrients), slow-
release fertilizer is recommended; apply per the label instructions. Chelated iron is also more
often required for container grown trees and should be applied per the label instructions.
Protect from sun
In very hot, sunny areas, protect the trunk and large limbs from sunburn, particularly after
pruning that exposes limbs to the sun. Lemons are especially susceptible. Wrap the trunk of a
newly planted tree with newspapers or tree wraps and tie loosely. Paint the trunks and exposed
limbs of older trees with white, water-based latex paint diluted 1:1 with water.
Protect from frost
Young citrus trees are susceptible to frost damage. For short-term protection of the trunk, options
include an insulating wrap of corrugated cardboard, several layers of newspapers, corn stalks, or
thermal wraps. Wrap to a point above the bud union. If the tree suffers frost damage, do not cut