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Holly's Homestead — Citrus Tree

Orange

Citrus sinensis · Rue family
DIFFICULTY Easy–moderate
TYPE Evergreen perennial tree
MATURITY 2–3 years to first fruit
Sun
Full sun, sheltered
Water
Regular, deep
Soil pH
5.5–6.5
Spacing
4–5m
Depth
graft union above soil

01Planting depth

As with all grafted citrus, keep the graft union 5–10cm above soil level. Oranges are a little more frost-tender than lemons — choose a warm, sheltered position.

02Planting

Method
Plant with the graft union above soil level; stake loosely in the first year.
Soil
Well-drained, slightly acidic; raised mounds in heavy clay.
Timing
Plant in spring, in a warm, sheltered, sunny spot.

03Growing care

  • Water deeply and regularly, especially through flowering and fruit set.
  • Feed with a citrus fertiliser in early spring, late summer, and autumn.
  • Mulch around the drip line, clear of the trunk.
  • Prune lightly after harvest to open the canopy.

04Problems

  • Citrus leaf miner — silvery trails on new growth; prune tips.
  • Gall wasp — swollen stems; prune out galls before spring.
  • Sooty mould — follows sap-sucking pests; treat the pest.
  • Fruit drop — irregular watering or stress; keep care consistent.

05Harvest & storage

Signs
Full colour, sweet taste on testing — colour alone isn't always a reliable guide.
Method
Cut or twist from the stem.
Curing
None needed — fruit holds well on the tree.
Storage
Room temperature 1–2 weeks, or refrigerated up to a month.

06Companions & rotation

Plant nearby
ComfreyMarigoldGarlic
Avoid nearby
Close tree planting
Rotation note
Not applicable — perennial tree.