Citrus Tree Care
There's nothing quite like the taste of homegrown citrus, and in Florida’s warm, sunny climate, it’s easier than you might think to grow your own oranges, lemons, limes, or grapefruits. Citrus trees not only provide fresh, flavorful fruit but also add beauty and long-term value to your garden or landscape.
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Whether you're planting a single tree or starting a mini orchard, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from when and how to plant, to seasonal care and protection tips.
At Abundant Gardens, we're here to help every step of the way. Keep reading for our full citrus tree care guide, or stop by and chat with our garden experts in person!
When to Plant Your Citrus Tree
Citrus trees can be planted year-round in Florida, but timing matters for young trees:
Best Time to Plant
Early spring (after the last frost, usually April) is ideal so the tree has time to establish before next winter.
Cold Protection for Young Trees
If planting in fall or winter, keep the tree in its container and move it indoors during freezes. Once spring arrives, plant it in the ground for a full growing season before the next cold snap.
Site Selection & Planting Instructions
Citrus trees need the right location and soil conditions to thrive:
Best Place to Plant
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Sunlight: Full sun is best, but at least 6–8 hours daily.
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Drainage: Choose a location with well-drained soil. Avoid low areas that stay soggy.
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Spacing: Allow 15–20 feet between trees to give roots and canopies space to grow.
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Avoid Planting Over: Septic systems, drain lines, or near buildings and power lines.
Planting Steps
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Clear grass and weeds from the planting area.
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Dig a hole slightly larger than the tree’s container.
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Remove the tree and gently shave or loosen the fiber roots around the root ball to encourage new growth.
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Place the tree in the hole so the existing soil surface on the root ball is level with the ground.
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Fill the hole halfway with water, then backfill with native or bagged soil. Tamp down gently to remove air pockets.
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Build a 4-inch soil brim in a 4-foot circle around the base to help hold water.
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Water thoroughly 2–3 times per week for the first month, then reduce to 1–2 times per week as the tree establishes.
*Increased watering may be necessary as temperatures rise. -
Do not fertilize until the tree is well established.
Citrus Greening & Disease Prevention
Citrus Greening is a serious bacterial disease spread by the Asian Citrus Psyllid. While there is no cure, you can help your tree stay strong:
Companion Planting
Guava trees planted nearby may help deter the psyllid. Planting your Citrus near the drip line of a large Oak Tree can be very advantageous as the Oak tannins can act to protect the Citrus from the effects of the psyllid.
Pruning
Trim 10–12 inches from the top and sides of the tree in February and August. Remove any sprouts from ground level up to 18 inches on the trunk.
Citrus Tree Fertilizing Schedule
Regular fertilization is crucial for healthy growth:
Timing
Every 6 weeks from mid-February through September.
Type
Use citrus-specific fertilizer.
Amount
Apply 1 lb of fertilizer per 1” of trunk diameter at ground level.
Application
Spread from the trunk to the drip line. You may also use a citrus nutritional spray as directed on the label.
Pest & Cold Weather Protection
Florida winters and pests can bring sudden damage. Protect your citrus tree by:
Pest Control
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Use Malathion oil when new growth appears to prevent leaf miners and other insects.
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Always follow label directions when applying pesticides.
Cold Protection
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Container Trees: Bring indoors during frost or freeze warnings.
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In-Ground Trees: Cover with a blanket that reaches the ground. Remove coverings once temperatures rise above 36°F.
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Post-Freeze Care: Leaf drop may occur but is temporary. Wait for new growth before pruning any frost damage.
Stop By Our Store To Enhance Your Gardening Experience
If you have any questions about your citrus tree or any other plants in your garden, contact us or stop in at our Plant City, FL store. We want you to have the best growing experience possible!