Citrus Nutrition Program
A practical nutrition guide for citrus orchards from spring growth through harvest. This program focuses on fruit set, balanced nutrition, fruit sizing and quality improvement under typical citrus-growing conditions.
Common Challenges
Iron Deficiency
Common in calcareous soils and often associated with leaf chlorosis, reduced growth and lower productivity.
Zinc Deficiency
May result in smaller leaves, restricted shoot growth and reduced fruit development.
Flower and Fruit Drop
Nutritional imbalances and environmental stress can increase flower and fruit drop.
Poor Fruit Size and Quality
Insufficient potassium and unbalanced nutrition may reduce fruit size, appearance and market quality.
Key Growth Stages
These recommendations are intended as general guidance. Soil conditions, irrigation water quality, climate, cultivar and management practices may influence nutritional requirements.
Bud Swell & Spring Flush
This stage initiates new vegetative growth and prepares the tree for flowering and fruit production later in the season.
- Supply zinc and boron
- Provide available phosphorus
- Correct micronutrient deficiencies
- Support vigorous spring growth
Fruit Set & Early Fruit Development
Fruit number is largely determined during this stage and early fruit growth begins.
- Provide balanced nitrogen nutrition
- Supply early-season potassium
- Maintain photosynthetic activity
- Correct iron and zinc deficiencies
Fruit Enlargement
A significant portion of final fruit size and weight develops during this stage, increasing nutrient demand.
- Increase potassium supply
- Maintain adequate magnesium nutrition
- Minimize nutritional stress
- Preserve healthy leaf function
Fruit Quality & Pre-Harvest
Fruit quality, color, firmness, appearance and marketability are strongly influenced during the final stages before harvest.
- Supply potassium and calcium
- Support peel quality
- Improve tissue strength
- Maintain overall fruit quality
