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Posted by A. Jordan

Why It’s Important to Fertilize Citrus

Citrus Fertilization – A Good Health Practice    

Humans can’t synthesize Vitamin C on our own, so we rely on Citrus (and other Vitamin C-rich foods) as a necessary part of our diets.


What do Citrus trees need to eat to grow healthy and strong?

 

It’s Element(ary), Dear Watson

As the seventh most abundant element in the known universe and a key player in giving us breathing air, Nitrogen orchestrates new growth in Citrus trees!


Other elements, like Zinc or Iron, are lackeys in the Earth’s plot to grow strong Citrus.


The team at Sims Tree Health Specialists, Inc., prepared with the appropriate treatment and fertilization plan, is the one-two punch to a nutrient-deficient Citrus tree.

 

What is Citrus Fertilization?


fertilizer for planting trees

Citrus fertilization is the application of fertilizers rich in micronutrients to support a Citrus tree’s growth. The fertilizer is applied through a granular, powder, or liquid.


The growth of a Citrus tree depends on its ability to take up nitrogen in the soil.


In the wintertime, when nitrogen can’t be replenished fast enough due to a lack of sun and warmth, Citrus trees lose resistance to fungal diseases. Yellowing of the leaves may occur, making the tree look sickly.

 

Do All Citrus Trees Need Fertilization?

Yes!


Citrus fertilization can be performed multiple times a year. It is recommended that Citrus trees be fertilized every three months with the change of the seasons. Some Arborists, however, do not recommend the zenith of summer to be the ideal time to apply citrus fertilization.  


Fertilizers should be applied to the soil evenly under the canopy of a tree. For optimal results, apply the citrus fertilization to the drip line, avoiding the area nearest to the tree trunk.


Farmer giving granulated fertilizer in ground

 

Synthetic v. Organic Fertilizers

Synthetic fertilizers work quickly to rejuvenate the soil. Imagine them delivering a wake-up call to the soil to get new growth going! Chemical fertilizers are easier to apply, and they are a cheaper option than organic citrus fertilization.


Organic fertilizers slowly release nutrients. They preserve the beneficial bacteria in the soil, deriving their might from alfalfa, blood meal, bone meal, fish meal, and many more sources!


Our ISA Certified Arborists prefer organic fertilizers, as organics favor a more fungal-dominated soil (yes, there can be good fungus)! Organics are better for the trees and the soil in the long run.

 

Practice Good Health

Overall, citrus fertilization is what our Sims THS Arborists call “a good health practice.” There is no time like the present to start implementing healthy habits.


Trees should be fertilized rather than not. If the price of applying organic citrus fertilization is prohibitive to your budget, fertilize with synthetics.


Call the professionals at Sims Tree Health Specialists, Inc., to get your trees on track to a long life!

 

About Sims Tree Health Specialists, Inc. 

Sims Tree Health Specialists, Inc. is dedicated to the preservation, education, improved health, and safety of trees. Sims THS has provided California’s Urban Forests with premium healthcare since 1972. To learn more, visit our website: https://www.simsths.com/


Sims THS offers services with our ISA Certified Arborists in the following:

 

Diagnosis and Disease Management, Pest Suppression, Organic Solutions, Fruit Suppression, Drought Protection, and Arborist Assessment Reports and Preservation Plans.

 

In addition to providing quality tree health services, the Sims family is known for their educational pursuits. In 1996, they started the Sims Tree Learning Center (TLC), a 6-acre botanical garden and research facility sponsored by Sims Tree Health Specialists, Inc. The facility houses multiple types of gardens, including a cactus and succulent garden and one of the largest collections of Palms in the Inland Empire. Learn with us!

 

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