If you’ve been thinking about planting citrus trees, March and April are the sweet spot in the Northern Rivers. The combination of warm soil, mild temperatures and more reliable moisture creates ideal conditions for young trees to establish before the extremes of summer and winter. Give your citrus a good start, and you will enjoy bountiful harvests for years to come – think juicy lemons, delicious mandarins and oranges for marmalade!
Warm soil helps roots develop
One of the biggest advantages of planting citrus in early autumn is the soil temperature. After the long summer, the ground is still warm, even as the air begins to cool. Warm soil is critical for root growth. Planting now ensures the roots will continue to actively grow and spread, and anchors the tree, giving it improved ability to take up water and nutrients.
Milder temperatures reduce plant stress
With autumnal temperatures neither too hot nor too cold, your plants can enjoy a gentler environment to settle into. The hot, humid summers in the Northern Rivers can create conditions that are tough on newly planted citrus. Young trees are especially vulnerable to heat stress, leaf burn, rapid moisture loss and transplant shock. By contrast, planting in winter can slow root activity.
Autumn brings more reliable moisture
This time of year often delivers more consistent rainfall than the unpredictability of summer storms and dry spells. Regular rainfall means less hand watering and more even soil moisture. There is less chance that your plants will dry out.
Choose the right location and prepare before you plant
Citrus trees are sun worshippers. Plant your trees where there is direct sunlight – at least six to eight hours. If you have a south-facing wall, your trees will be very happy. This will ensure ample sunshine and extra warmth for protection during the winter months.
Citrus trees hate wet feet. This can lead to root rot and disease, so make sure you choose well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy, add a generous amount of quality compost or potting mix to improve drainage and provide additional nutrients to young trees.
Take good care of your citrus trees in the early days
If you have planted during a dry autumn, you may have to top up the water supply. The occasional deep watering is recommended in these seasons to encourage roots to grow deeper in search of moisture and promote a stronger root system. Avoid over-watering. A simple way to test soil moisture is to stick your finger in the ground. If it feels dry to touch, it’s time to water.
Look after your citrus during fruiting season
Caring for citrus during the fruiting season requires consistent, deep watering to prevent fruit drop and split, along with regular fertilising to support fruit development. Feed with a potassium-rich fertilizer (we recommend and sell Troforte) and apply mulch for moisture retention. It’s important to monitor for pests like stink bugs, and to harvest fruit promptly when ripe.
Stronger trees, better yields
Set your trees up for a long and healthy life by giving them a good start. You will be rewarded with stronger overall growth, improved disease resistance and more fruit.
Pop in and chat with our team about the best citrus varieties for your garden. We’ll help you get started!
