Light. Full sun is best, though it tolerates light shade. Plant at least 15 ft from buildings, other trees and septic drain fields.
Water. For the first month, run a hose in the basin for 10–15 minutes twice a week. Later, water when new growth wilts in mid-afternoon.
Soil and feeding. Use a citrus fertilizer with micronutrients, such as Citrus and Fruit Trees fertilizer. Feed young trees every six weeks from February to October; older trees four to five times a year, away from the trunk.
Size. Grows to about 12 ft.
Pruning. Remove suckers from the rootstock below the graft. Mature trees rarely need pruning beyond freeze or disease damage.
Problems to watch. Keep grass, weeds and mulch at least 1 ft from the trunk to prevent foot rot. Buy only certified trees from state-registered nurseries.
Good to know. Planting an early 'Hamlin', a midseason 'Pineapple' and a late 'Valencia' spreads fruit from November to July. Oranges do not ripen after picking, so taste one first.
Sources: UF/IFAS EDIS HS132: Citrus Culture in the Home Landscape · UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Citrus
