When Is the Best Time to Plant Orange Trees? Plus a Detailed Planting Method

As a fruit rich in vitamin C, oranges have a very strong market among consumers, and their cultivation value is relatively high. So when is the best time to plant oranges? What are the planting methods?

1. Growing Conditions for Oranges

1. Soil

Orange seeds have very high requirements for soil. You should choose decomposed humus soil from virgin forest, with loam of a granular structure being the best. Because according to the growth habits of oranges, the best mix is humus soil, manure soil, forest soil and coarse sand blended in a ratio of 2:1:2:1, which is beneficial for effective root absorption.

2. Water

Observe the dryness of the soil every day. In spring and autumn, water once every 1 to 2 days; in autumn and winter, water once every 3 to 5 days. Do not water too much or too little; effective root absorption is most important. Do not let water accumulate at the roots, and pay attention to ventilation and air permeability.

3. Light

Oranges need plenty of sunlight, but they cannot be exposed to the sun for long periods. It is best to sow in spring, autumn and winter, because the temperature in summer is too high, and high temperatures will affect the growth and development of the seedlings.

2. Planting Time for Oranges

Oranges have poor drought and cold resistance, and temperature determines the planting time, so generally they cannot be planted in summer or winter. If planted then, it will seriously damage the roots and leaves, leading to reduced yield and lower output, lowering the quality of the oranges and shortening their edible lifespan. The best time to plant oranges is March and April and September and October, when the temperature is most suitable.

3. Planting Methods for Oranges

1. Soil Improvement and Weeding

Because the orange-growing areas in our country are mostly acidic soil and not very fertile, this is very unfavorable for the growth of this fruit tree. Therefore, before planting oranges, the soil must first be improved. After improving the soil to enhance its fertility and nutrients, loosen the soil and weed in time, and eliminate weeds promptly to save nutrients. Pay attention to irrigation and drainage, maintain moderate soil moisture, and also spray new high-lipid film to retain fertilizer and water, effectively promoting the strength of the tree.

2. Pruning the Tree Shape

Where the branches and leaves are dense around the canopy, prune to thin them out. Prune the top branches heavily and the inner branches lightly, so that the inside of the canopy has good light, resulting in more fruit and better quality. Apply wound-healing and antiseptic film promptly to the cuts made by pruning shears to promote wound healing and prevent invasion and infection by pathogens.

3. Pest and Disease Control

There are many pests and diseases that harm orange trees. Common ones include mites, scale insects, leafminer moths, and anthracnose. For control, you should combine spraying according to the occurrence characteristics of each pest and disease. At the same time, spray new high-lipid film to enhance the efficacy of the pesticide, ensure the tree overwinters safely, and lay a good foundation for flowering and fruiting the following year.