Citrus

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How to grow: Growing Great Citrus

Pest management: Citrus

The Basics

When to plant: Citrus can be planted almost any time of year. The best time is after the last frost in spring (mid-March)

Harvest window: Year-round, depending on variety

Fertilization: Nitrogen in January, again in May/June timeframe. Monitor for zinc, iron, and other micronutrient deficiencies and correct through foliar application or soil pH adjustments.

Annual care overview:

• Most citrus requires frost protection when temperatures dip below 25 degrees Fahrenheit; monitor and protect citrus plants (cover, lights, a south-facing wall are examples)
• Monitor for whiteflies, scale, mites, and sooty mold; many of which can be controlled by controlling for ants.

Some Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County^*

Grapefruit: Oro Blanco

Kumquats: Meiwa, Nagami

Lemons: Eureka, Lisbon, Meyer

Limes: Bearss

Oranges: Lane's Late Navel, Robertson Navel, Valencia, Washington Navel

Mandarins: Clementine, Dancy, Encore, Fremont, Kara, Kinnow, Page, Satsuma (seedless)

Tangelos: Minneola

^* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.