Story: Maintenance Citrus for a Bumper Harvest
Episode: 8
Presenter: Bonnie-Marie Hibbs
Air Date: 2 November 2024

Bonnie reveals how to grow thriving citrus trees with a beginner's guide, featuring essential tips on varieties, ideal locations, soil requirements, fertilisation, and pruning for a bountiful harvest.

• When starting your citrus garden, you have a delightful range of options. Common varieties include lemons, oranges, limes, and grapefruits. Don’t forget to explore specialty varieties, which can introduce unique flavours and characteristics to your garden.
• Citrus plants thrive in bright sunlight, so choose a location that receives ample light. North or west-facing areas are ideal, as they provide the most sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing your citrus in spots that receive morning shade or are shaded for most of the day, as this can hinder growth.
• To ensure your citrus trees flourish, plant them in humus-rich soil with excellent drainage. Citrus roots are sensitive to waterlogged conditions; if they sit in constant moisture, the plants may become stressed and sulk.
• For optimal growth, consider using a premium fertiliser like Powerfeed Pro Series, specifically designed for fruit and citrus. This fertiliser contains the right balance of nutrients to promote vigorous flowering, which leads to a more abundant crop.
• One of the added benefits of this fertiliser is its dual purpose: it not only nourishes your citrus but also improves the soil. It effectively breaks down heavy clay soils and reduces nutrient loss in sandy soils, making it suitable for various gardening conditions.
• When it comes to pruning citrus trees, the approach differs from that of deciduous fruit trees. Instead of shaping them into an open vase form, aim for a bushier and denser structure. This not only enhances the overall health of the tree but also encourages better fruit production. The ideal time to prune is immediately after the fruiting season, allowing the tree to recover before the next growth cycle.

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