Citrus trees: planting and maintenance

Where to plant citrus trees and wintering

Citrus trees are typical fruit trees of the Mediterranean region. They can be planted in the ground in warm areas or in pots, which should be brought indoors during winter in cooler regions.

The cultivation of citrus trees (orange trees, lemon trees, kumquats, calamondins, mandarin trees, clementine trees…) will be optimal in a very sunny and sheltered spot from prevailing winds.

While citrus trees enjoy warmth, they are sensitive to both drought and stagnant moisture.

For pot cultivation, place the citrus tree outside as soon as temperatures allow, then bring it indoors before winter frosts in a cool (below 10 °C), bright location with no dry air.

Citrus cultivation in pots

When and how to plant?

The planting of citrus trees is preferably done in spring or, if not possible, in autumn. These fruit trees appreciate light, well-drained soils that are sandy and not calcareous. They are quite demanding and require rich soil.

Whether you plant them in open ground or in pots, it is advisable to soak the root ball in water for a few moments before planting. Place a layer of gravel at the bottom to facilitate drainage. Grow citrus trees in a mixture of special citrus compost (or well-matured compost), garden soil, and sand. In slightly calcareous soils, incorporate heather soil into the garden soil before planting.

Care requirements, in pots or in open ground

Cultivation of citrus trees in open ground:

• Water regularly during summer, then significantly reduce watering during the winter period.
• When the vegetative phase begins (appearance of flowers), gradually increase watering.
• Apply organic fertiliser ‘special for citrus trees’ in spring and summer. Supplement in early autumn with well-matured compost.
• At the end of autumn, protect citrus trees with a winter cover.
• At the end of winter, add a handful of wood ash, rich in potash, to improve fruiting.

Orange tree cultivated in open ground

Cultivation of citrus trees in pots:

• Water regularly, twice a week in summer and once or twice a month in winter, preferably with rainwater (non-calcareous). Do not let water stagnate in the saucer.
• Apply organic fertiliser ‘special for citrus trees’ once a month from March to October.
• From October to April, bring the pot indoors to a cool, bright location with a temperature below 10°C, ideally between 0 and 5°C.
• In case of aphid or scale insect attacks, spray a mixture of water and black soap on the foliage.
• Repot your citrus tree approximately every 3 years.

Pruning citrus trees

The pruning of citrus trees is carried out at the end of winter, after the frosts but before the resumption of growth.

It is simple and consists of:

• Removing dead wood and branches that cross each other inside, to allow air and light to circulate in the medium.
• Pinching the tips of the secondary shoots, two to three times a year.

Orange tree grown in open ground