What To Know
- Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
- Spread a layer of mulch, such as wood chips or bark, around the tree to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
- It typically takes 3-5 years for a navel orange tree to produce its first fruits.
If you’re dreaming of harvesting your own sweet and juicy navel oranges, planting and growing these citrus trees is a rewarding endeavor. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you embark on this delightful journey:
1. Choose the Right Variety
There are numerous navel orange varieties to choose from, each with its unique characteristics. Some popular options include:
- Washington Navel: A classic and widely grown variety known for its large, seedless fruits.
- Lane Late Navel: A late-maturing variety that produces fruits with a rich flavor and high sugar content.
- Powell Late Navel: A vigorous variety with large, juicy oranges that ripen in late spring.
2. Select a Suitable Site
Navel orange trees thrive in warm, sunny climates with well-drained soil. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
3. Prepare the Soil
Before planting, amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or manure to improve its fertility and drainage. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
4. Planting the Tree
- Carefully remove the tree from its container and gently loosen any circling roots.
- Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove air pockets.
- Water the tree deeply to settle the soil around the roots.
5. Mulching
Spread a layer of mulch, such as wood chips or bark, around the tree to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
6. Watering
Regular watering is crucial for the growth and health of your navel orange tree. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
7. Fertilizing
Fertilize your navel orange tree three times a year: once in early spring, again in mid-summer, and finally in late fall. Use a balanced citrus fertilizer that provides nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
8. Pruning
Prune your navel orange tree annually to maintain its shape and encourage fruit production. Remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any suckers or water sprouts that grow from the trunk or roots.
9. Pest and Disease Management
Navel orange trees are susceptible to various pests and diseases, including aphids, scale, and citrus tristeza virus. Monitor your trees regularly and take appropriate measures to control infestations or diseases.
10. Harvesting
Navel oranges are typically ready for harvest in late winter or early spring. The fruits should be fully colored and firm when picked. Use sharp pruning shears to cut the oranges from the branches.
Enjoying Your Harvest
Once you have successfully harvested your navel oranges, enjoy their sweet and juicy goodness in a variety of ways:
- Eat them fresh
- Juice them for a refreshing drink
- Add them to salads, desserts, and other dishes
- Make marmalade or other preserves
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take for a navel orange tree to bear fruit?
A: It typically takes 3-5 years for a navel orange tree to produce its first fruits.
Q: Can I grow navel oranges in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow navel oranges in containers, but they will need to be repotted as they grow larger.
Q: How much sunlight do navel orange trees need?
A: Navel orange trees need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.
Q: How often should I water my navel orange tree?
A: Water your navel orange tree deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for navel orange trees?
A: Use a balanced citrus fertilizer that provides nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
