Light. Citrus tolerates light shade but fruits best in full sun.
Water. For the first month, water twice a week. After that, water when new growth wilts in mid-afternoon.
Soil and feeding. Citrus prefers pH 5.5–6.5. Use a citrus fertilizer with micronutrients, such as Citrus and Fruit Trees, spread past the drip line and away from the trunk.
Size. Grows to about 20 ft. Plant at least 15 ft from other trees and buildings, away from septic drain fields.
Pruning. Mature trees rarely need pruning. Remove suckers from below the graft and water sprouts as needed.
Problems to watch. Grapefruit is susceptible to scab, greasy spot and melanose. Keep grass, weeds and mulch away from the trunk to lower the risk of foot rot.
Good to know. Most grapefruit varieties ripen between November and May.
Sources: UF/IFAS EDIS HS-867/HS132: Citrus Culture in the Home Landscape
