Backyard fruit trees provide shade that increases comfort and lowers utility costs as well as scrumptious and juicy fruit; however, these fruit trees will require informed care. Citrus trees grow best here in Southwest Florida, and Beltran’s Nursery and Landscape is a great source for them. We’ll arm you with a healthy tree from the start along with all the knowledge you’ll need to see that it continues to thrive including how and when to water, whether to mulch, and even when to prune fruit trees.

Southwest Florida is a great place to raise citrus trees. Beltran’s Nursery and Landscape sells tangelo, orange, lemon, and cocktail tree varieties. Come in to check out our stock, make a purchase, and secure valuable care instructions.

• Tangelo trees are a hybrid of grapefruit and tangerine. To plant this tree, provide plenty of space for root and canopy development alongside another citrus tree to fertilize the tangelo tree.
• Orange trees also require a large area of clearance for growth, along with loads of access to sun and soil that drains well.
• Lemon trees are vulnerable to cold weather, so planting with protection from northern winds is important. They also require plenty of soil and well-draining soil.
• Cocktail trees are grafted creations that produce lemons, grapefruits, oranges, limes, and tangerines. Protect them from freezing weather and provide plenty of fertilizer and sun for a thriving plant.

What You Need to Know about Pruning

Pruning citrus isn’t as critical to citrus survival as one might think. Without regular pruning, your citrus trees will likely live, but appropriate pruning will improve the aesthetic and the convenience of harvesting fruits. Know when and how to prune your citrus before it’s ever planted.

Clear Away Dead Branches and Suckers

Citrus trees regularly produce sprouts, or suckers, at their bases. If you clear these away quickly, your trunk will be more likely to remain strong and straight. Tree owners should do this regularly and, at the same time, take away any limbs or branches that are no longer alive since they’ll draw in pests and increase the likelihood of disease.

Appropriate, Annual Thinning

Thinning of a citrus tree’s canopy will reduce the chance of injury to the tree and increase the circulation of air. Air circulation lessens common disease caused by fungi and excessive moisture. The thinning in question should occur annually in the mid to late spring.

Height and Shape Maintenance

In addition to aesthetic benefits, regular pruning to keep your tree at a manageable height and a symmetrical shape will make harvesting your fruits easier. Pruning for this purpose isn’t necessary for survival, but if pursued, prune during the spring or the late summer to avoid affecting the appearance of blossoms.

Tips for Pruning

If you decide pruning is something you should do yourself, follow a few tips to avoid harming your tree. Clean your equipment in a solution that’s a 3:1 ratio of water to bleach. As you trim, ensure that the place where you cut is flush with the trunk to prevent leaving stubs or ragged edges.

Residents of Southwest Florida can grow their own citrus, and part of doing so includes knowing when to prune fruit trees. Stop in at Beltran’s Nursery and Landscape to secure a quality, healthy tree and all the information you need to keep the quality level high. Reach out by calling 239-362-4327 to make an appointment, ask any questions, or place an order for delivery!