When to plant navel oranges? They can be planted in both spring and autumn
SummaryNavel oranges can be planted in both spring and autumn. Spring planting is generally carried out from late February to March, when the spring shoots turn green, temperatures rise and rainfall is abundant; planting navel oranges at this time can improve the survival rate of the plants. Autumn planting is generally carried out from late September to October, after the autumn shoots have matured and before temperatures drop; planting navel oranges in autumn helps the root wounds of the saplings heal and also promotes the normal sprouting of spring shoots the following year.
Navel oranges can be planted in both spring and autumn. Spring planting is generally from late February to March, when the spring shoots turn green, temperatures gradually rise and rainfall is relatively abundant, making it easier for navel orange saplings to survive and also saving the work of irrigating after autumn planting. Autumn planting takes place from late September to October, after the autumn shoots have matured; at this time temperatures are still relatively high and the soil temperature is suitable too, so as long as there is sufficient moisture in the soil, the root wounds of the saplings will heal relatively quickly after planting, and they can also grow one round of new roots, which helps the spring shoots sprout normally the following year.
Navel Orange Planting Techniques
1. Choosing the orchard site
The orchard site is best located in a sheltered, sunny spot with abundant water and convenient transportation. It is best to choose deep, fertile, slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter for planting. The Jianghan Plain in China is the most suitable area for planting navel oranges.
2. Variety selection and planting time
Newhall is mostly chosen for planting. Spring planting is generally from mid-to-late February to mid-to-late March, and autumn planting from late September to mid-October. Comparatively speaking, autumn planting of navel oranges is more suitable. In addition, planting can also be done during the May Day holiday and the plum rain period. To prevent the plants from being damaged by freezing, first heel them in in autumn, then the following autumn transplant the plants together with their root balls into the field.
3. Planting density
If you want to shorten the time to high yield, you can control the planting density at about 110 plants/mu, with row spacing of 4m and plant spacing of 1.5m; plant according to this planting density. The standard planting row spacing is 4m, plant spacing is 3m, with rows running north-south, wide rows and narrow plants.
4. Planting method
Place the navel orange saplings upright and spread their roots out evenly in all directions, then begin backfilling with fine soil. While backfilling, gently lift the saplings upward to encourage the roots to fit better with the fine soil, then slowly tread the backfilled soil firm. When planting, the soil should be mounded up to the original root crown of the sapling, but about 15cm higher than the original ground surface, to prevent the root crown from sinking below the ground surface. Also water thoroughly with enough water to settle the roots, and water promptly afterwards to ensure the plants survive.