Monthly Tip

Once the threat of frost is past (typically March 15), it's a good time to cut back branches that touch the ground, fences, or other structures. Thin the tree to let more air into the middle. Trim out crossing branches and anything that looks dead.

Pruning is not needed for fruit productivity yet may be desired for size management. Pruning will also help control scale and aphid infestations. If you see ants in the tree, use a sticky goo (such as Tanglefoot) on the trunk to keep them out of the tree. Be sure to apply the goo on top of tape rather than directly on the trunk. The ants 'protect' the scale and aphids. If you see scale (bumps on bark), thoroughly spray with horticultural oil to suffocate them.

Yellowing of leaves is normal this time of year as the iron that keeps the leaves green is chemically unavailable because the soil is too cold. When the soil warms up (over 60° F), check for yellowing. You may not need to apply a nitrogen fertilizer if the new leaves are green.

Refer to the UC Home Orchard web site for more Citrus Care information.