The Latest Methods and Precautions for Root Pruning of Citrus

The citrus root system has a strong ability for self-thinning and renewal. After aging or when the environment is unfavorable, it can die off on its own and be replaced by newly grown roots. Therefore, carrying out root pruning and root promotion treatments in stages can promote root expansion, allow the roots to grow deeper, and also improve yield and quality. So can citrus be root-pruned in winter, and how should it be done? Let's take a look together with the editor.

I. Timing of Root Pruning

Under normal circumstances, young citrus trees need to be root-pruned twice a year, once in June and once in August. For fruit-bearing trees, root pruning can be done once a year, either in June or August. So as for whether citrus can be root-pruned in winter, this is clearly impossible. Winter temperatures are low, and the plant enters a dormant period. At this time, root activity is low. If root pruning is done then, the roots not only cannot recover in time, but also have weak resistance to low temperatures, which can very easily cause the plant to die.

II. Root Pruning Methods

1. Root pruning of young trees

For the first root pruning of young trees, a trench should be dug on both sides of the tree canopy. The length of the trench is about 70 cm, the depth is about 40 cm, and the width is not limited; generally, it only needs to be enough to cut the root mass. After root pruning, fertilizer is applied in the trench. For each tree, apply 50 jin of green manure, 0.2 jin of urea, 0.5 jin of superphosphate, and 5 jin of human manure and urine water. It is best to fill the trench level with soil. The second root pruning is done in the same way as the first, just on the opposite sides of the tree canopy.

2. Root pruning of fruit-bearing trees

Trenches should be dug on both sides of the tree canopy. The length of the trench is about 3 m, the depth is about 70 cm, and the width is likewise just enough to cut the roots. After root pruning, fertilizer should also be applied, but the amount of fertilizer at this time is greater than for young trees. For each tree, apply 50 jin of green manure, 0.7 jin of urea, 2 jin of superphosphate, and 80 jin of human manure and urine water, then cover with soil and fill level.

III. Details to Note

In dry seasons, watering is needed after root pruning. Especially for young trees, root pruning should also be targeted. For example, for trees that are growing vigorously or have reached fruit-bearing age but have not borne fruit, root pruning should be carried out with emphasis. For fruit-bearing trees, after root pruning, the wounds need to be trimmed to make them smoother. If the wounds are relatively large, then some medicinal liquid, such as carbendazim, needs to be applied to the wounds. This is to prevent root rot. Young trees need to be root-pruned twice a year, once in June and once in August; while fruit-bearing trees are also root-pruned during this period, but only once a year, that is, choosing between June and August.

The above is an introduction to citrus root pruning methods and precautions. We hope it can help you. To learn more related knowledge, please stay tuned to us.