Orange Growing Guide
Citrus sinensis
Crop Rotation Group
Miscellaneous ●
Soil
Warm, moist soil, well-enriched with organic matter. Oranges grafted onto a dwarfing rootstock may be grown in containers.
Position
A sheltered spot in full sun; grow in a frost-free spot under cover from autumn to early summer in cooler areas.
Frost tolerant
No. Grow at temperatures above 7°C (45°F).
Feeding
In spring, summer and autumn feed with a high nitrogen fertiliser. Yellowing leaves indicate a need for more nitrogen.
Companions
Oranges and other citrus are heavy feeders that resent close company,so companion plants have to be planted a little way away.
Spacing
Single Plants: 5.00m (16' 4") each way (minimum)
Rows: 5.00m (16' 4") with 5.00m (16' 4") row gap (minimum)
Sow and Plant
Grow in containers of rich compost to keep plants compact and to make it easy to bring plants indoors for the winter. Good drainage is essential.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
Notes
Prune in spring or summer.
Harvesting
Pick when richly coloured and fully ripe. Picking can continue for several weeks as fruits do not ripen all at once.
Troubleshooting
Grow outdoors in the warmer months to expose plants to heat and pollinators and to avoid most pests. Soft soap sprays can help against scale insects.
Planting and Harvesting Calendar
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Pests which Affect Orange